Rows of candles, costumes and creepy decorations brightened the narrow streets of Divisoria on Sunday as Filipinos observe the annual season of Halloween and Undas, which are happening later this October towards early November.
Stores along Santa Elena and Tabora streets in Manila’s busiest commercial district have rolled out various seasonal items in full display over the weekend amid the expected influx of shoppers this month.
Vendors said they started offering these products at the beginning of October alongside their regular merchandise with hopes of boosting their income. Divisoria is known for selling retail and wholesale products at lower prices.
Many shoppers have welcomed the early rollout, saying it gives them more time to prepare for parties, trick-or-treat events, and other activities associated with Halloween which are popular among children.
As October progresses, vendors hope for sales to pick up further, especially as more families and businesses plan to celebrate Halloween and commemorate All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days by November.
