PANO BA: Funeral planning guide for Filipinos in Australia, from costs, process, and traditions

In Filipino culture, conversations about death are often avoided. However, despite superstitions and beliefs, Dr Jaime Lopez, a funeral consultant in Sydney, explains why it is important to prepare for one’s passing.

Funeral consultant Dr. Jaime Lopez explains that many people hesitate to plan ahead. Image: Canva

Key Points

• Dr Jaime Lopez explains that having a funeral plan ensures that the wake and funeral are carried out according to one’s wishes, while also easing the financial and emotional burden on loved ones left behind.
• In Australia, when a person dies, it must be immediately reported to a doctor or hospital to obtain a death certificate. This document is essential for the next steps, such as funeral arrangements and insurance claims.
• According to the government’s Moneysmart website, the cost of a funeral can range from $4,000 to $15,000.

LISTEN TO

PANO BA: Bakit mahalaga na may plano para sa libing, at ano ang karaniwang ginagawa sa burol sa Australia?

SBS Filipino

10:15Filipino

May mga taong nagsasabing, ‘Baka ako na ang sumunod, kaya ayokong pag-usapan.’ Pero lagi kong ipinaaalala, hindi natin alam kung ano ang plano ni Lord para sa atin. Ang sa atin ay paghahanda lang naman para kung may biglaang pangyayari, ay mayroon na tayong naitabi.

Dr Jaime Lopez, Funeral Consultant

Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast serves only as a guide. It is advisable to consult with funeral and memorial consultants, lawyers, and registered financial planners for advice tailored to your specific situation.

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