In a cultural tapestry rich with tradition, many Asian communities will observe the Ghost Month, commencing on Aug. 23 and stretching until Sept. 21, 2025.

During this time, Filipino-Chinese families often avoid certain activities to keep their fortunes balanced.

The air is thick with superstition as they honor their ancestors and the spectral visitors believed to wander the earth during this time.

Feng shui Master Hanz Cua explained that the annual Asian tradition is not something to fear. "It is also an occasion to remember our departed loved ones and friends,” Cua said in an interview.

In the Philippines, the Filipino-Chinese follow the customs related to the annual festival, which usually takes place on the 15th day of the seventh month of the lunar calendar. A key event during Ghost Month is the Hungry Ghost Festival, which will be celebrated on Sept. 6.

During this festival, it is believed that the Gates of Hell, or the underworld, are opened, allowing hungry ghosts or lost souls to roam around visiting their families or seeking out victims among the living.

"If you make the lost souls happy, they will bring you wealth. The more paper money—distinct from actual currency—you burn, the more wealth you will receive. Prayers are also very important," he said.

Cua, who has been practicing feng shui for more than 20 years, mentioned that people may offer food, such as pork, chicken, beer, rice, soft drinks, liquor, and even cigarettes, starting at 9 a.m. "You can eat the food you offered once the candle goes out. Remember to change the plates afterward."

He said that during the festival, there are several activities that people observe or avoid, among them:

Avoid wearing plenty of red, black, and white colors

Avoid swimming

Refrain from major surgeries

Avoid buying a condo or house

Steer clear of signing contracts

Avoid construction or digging activities at home

Avoid hiring new employees for companies

Refrain from courtship and get married

Avoid whistling

Avoid staying out late at night

Avoid shouting

Avoid taking photos after sunset

Avoid hanging clothes outside at night

These practices are commonly observed to promote good luck and harmony during the festival, he said.

If construction began before Aug. 23, it can continue during the ghost month. Starting such activities during the Hungry Ghost festival is considered inauspicious based on ancient beliefs.

In some Asian countries, theater shows are performed to entertain hungry ghosts. The performances take place in front of empty chairs, which are reserved for the hungry ghosts.

It is commonly thought that disasters and other violent events are likely to occur during the ghost month.

Some of the unforgettable events or tragedies here and abroad that took place during the previous ghost months are the 9/11 terror attacks on US (2001); death of Princess Diana of Wales in Paris, France (Aug. 31, 1997); Manila hostage crisis that killed eight persons (Aug. 23, 2010); Payatas dumpsite tragedy in Quezon City where hundreds were buried alive in a trash slide (July 10, 2000); massive landslide at Cherry Hills Subdivision in Antipolo, Rizal where 60 people died (Aug. 3, 1999); Bocaque, Bulacan pagoda tragedy that left 266 people dead (July 2, 1993); the killer earthquake that rocked Baguio City and other parts of the country on July 16, 1990 which trapped and killed some 1,000 people. And many more.

While others would not relate these tragedies to Ghost Month, now that they’ve been mentioned, it brings up a thought – do you believe in Ghost Month?