Moving Into a New Home: What Every Filipino Family Believes
There’s something magical about moving into a new home — the excitement of a fresh start, the smell of new paint, and the joy of finally saying “Sa wakas, bahay na natin ‘to!”
But if you grew up in a Filipino household, you know it’s not just about unpacking boxes and arranging furniture. May mga pamahiin and traditions tayong sinusunod — “para swerte” and “para iwas malas.” Whether you believe in them or not, these rituals add charm and meaning to the big move.
Here are some of the most common (and fun!) Filipino beliefs when moving into a new home.
1. Bring Rice and Salt First
Before anything else, make sure rice and salt enter the house first. These symbolize abundance and protection — para hindi ka maubusan ng grasya sa bagong bahay mo. Some moms even sprinkle salt in corners to drive away bad spirits.
💡 Mom Tip: Put your rice in a nice jar and display it in the kitchen for that “abundant home” vibe!
2. Roll Coins on the Floor
Scatter or roll coins on the floor as soon as you enter. It’s said to attract financial luck and prosperity.
Kids love this tradition because, let’s be real — after the ritual, they get to keep the coins! 😂
3. Light a Candle
Lighting a candle in your new home symbolizes light and peace. Some families do this during a house blessing or prayer. It’s believed to drive away darkness and negative energy.
4. Do a House Blessing (Pasubo + Holy Water)
This is probably the most common Filipino tradition. A priest or pastor blesses the house with holy water while family and friends join in prayer. Afterwards, may “pasubo” or small feast to celebrate.
💡 Mom Tip: Keep it simple — home-cooked food, pancit for long life, and sweet desserts for a happy home!
5. Avoid Moving in on a Friday or the 13th
Many Filipinos say that Friday or the 13th brings bad luck if you move in on that day. Better to schedule it on a Saturday morning, so you have time to settle and invite positive energy.
6. Sleep in the House Right Away
Even if your furniture isn’t complete yet, it’s believed that someone must sleep there the first night — to claim the space and welcome good spirits.
7. No Sweeping Right Away
Don’t sweep the floors on your first day! They say sweeping on the same day you move in can “sweep away” your good fortune. Just tidy up after a day or two.
8. Place Fruits on the Table
Display 12 round fruits (for 12 months of good luck) or at least some apples and oranges. Round fruits symbolize prosperity and completeness.
9. Turn on All the Lights
Before officially settling in, turn on all the lights in the house — even for just a few minutes. This symbolizes brightness and good energy filling your new home.
10. Say a Family Prayer Together
Before sleeping on your first night, gather everyone and say a short prayer of gratitude and blessing. It’s a beautiful way to thank God for this new chapter in your life.
Why These Traditions Still Matter Today
You might think, “Pamahiin lang naman ‘yan.” But for many Filipino families, these beliefs are part of our identity. They remind us to be grateful, hopeful, and united as we start a new chapter.
At the end of the day, whether you bring salt or scatter coins, what really makes a house lucky is the love, laughter, and prayers inside it. 💖
Mommy Peach’s Note
When we moved into our new home, I did a mix of the modern and traditional beliefs when moving into a new home. I lit a candle, brought rice and salt, and prayed with my family. Simple rituals — but they made our new space feel like home.
Do you follow any pamahiin when moving into a new house? Share it in the comments — I’d love to hear your stories!
