Filipino Wedding Glossary › Ninong
Ninong
Pronunciation: NEE-nong
Origin: Tagalog, male sponsor or godfather in Filipino Catholic and Christian weddings
A male principal sponsor at a Filipino wedding, who pledges to support the couple in the marriage.
Ninong is the male principal sponsor at a Filipino Catholic or Christian wedding, paired with the ninang. He stands with the couple at the altar and pledges ongoing support.
Most weddings have multiple ninongs (matching ninangs). They are typically older mentors, family friends, or relatives. The choice signals who the couple wants in their long-term circle.
Ninongs traditionally also serve as godfathers to the couple's future children, though this expectation varies by family.