It’s a tradition among Filipinos to visit the departed during “Undas.”
But did you know that in Baguio City, there is a unique cemetery that people also visit on All Saints’ Day?
Instead of bodies, negative thoughts and emotions are buried in the graves.
For example, there is a grave marker engraved with “Why didn’t I?” or in Tagalog, “Bakit hindi ko ginawa?”
This is the Cemetery of Negativism in Camp John Hay.
This unique cemetery was even visited by Aldwin from Valenzuela.
According to Aldwin Marantal, a tourist, “I came here to reflect, and I know my father understands that even if I don’t visit his grave, I remember him.”
It’s as if the heaviness he felt has been lifted.
“For me, what really struck was ‘I am not a team player.’ I plan to bury it here, and I also intend to bring a token for my coworkers moving forward,” Marantal added.
Apart from the graves, a small wishing well in the cemetery has also become an attraction.
According to Pastor Ferdinand, it is important to remember not only the departed but also the happy and sad memories each of us has experienced.
The Cemetery of Negativism was established by Commanding General John Hightower in the early 1980s.
It was originally intended for American soldiers who felt disheartened by various problems.
This way, it is said to boost the morale and quality of thinking of the soldiers.
Now, it also serves to raise awareness and inspire visitors to change their lives through positive thinking.
**JOSE ROBERT INVENTOR
