LAS PIÑAS CITY – The Philippine Mortuary Association (PMA) held its 17th Annual Convention and Exhibit on November 14-15, 2024, at Woodlane Events Place. With the theme “Marketing to Millions as We Continue to Serve Our Communities,” the two-day event offered sessions, workshops for the renewal of embalming license, and networking opportunities designed to equip funeral owners with insights in the evolving death care industry.
The convention showcased the latest industry innovations, including an Exhibit Hall highlighting latest caskets from local and international suppliers such caskets from Allan Deang Group and Batesville.
The exhibit was not only limited to traditional burial but also modern innovations in honoring the departed. Among the featured exhibitors was Sea Burial Philippines which offers sea burial, a symbolic way of scattering ashes into rivers or oceans, similar with traditions in Hinduism and Buddhism. Sea Burial Philippines presented their Serenity Package, a memorable ceremony held aboard a yacht at Manila Bay, complete with 14k gold keepsakes for families to treasure.
Another highlight was the process of aquamation or water cremation, an eco-friendly alternative to fire cremation. This process produces remains that are soft white and clean, resembling fine sand compared to the dark appearance of ashes from fire cremation.
Attendees gained insights from keynote speaker Coach Adrian Ding, a motivational speaker, corporate trainer, inspirational writer and the CEO of Maximum Impact Philippines Corporate Training & Development.
In his inspiring talk, “Service and Radiating L.I.F.E.,” Coach Ding emphasized the importance of purpose-driven leadership, customer care, and nurturing the next generation of business leaders to create meaningful change in both communities and personal lives. His talk resonated with the Chairperson Emeritus of PMA, Mr. Renato “Oly” Dychango, Jr. on continuing the legacy of family-owned funeral business as well as their active involvement in the death care industry.
The two-day event by PMA provided a platform for funeral owners to exchange ideas, explore new trends, and enhance their expertise. The annual PMA gathering aims to remind and reinforce the industry’s commitment to serving families and communities with compassion and innovation. Yna Gracelle J. Amores