PBBM calls for ‘solemn, peaceful’ observance of Undas

EARLY VISIT. A man visits the grave of his departed loved one while a worker uses a ladder to clean the tombs at Capilpil Cemetery in San Mateo, Rizal on Tuesday (Oct. 31, 2023). Filipinos observe “Undas” or All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day every Nov. 1 and 2. (PNA photo by Joey O. Razon)

MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Tuesday called for a “solemn and peaceful” observance of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day on Nov. 1 and 2, respectively.

“Isang mataimtim at mapayapang Undas sa ating lahat (A solemn and peaceful Undas to all of us),” Marcos said in his vlog uploaded on his official Facebook page.

Marcos reminded the public to comply with rules when visiting their departed loved ones in cemeteries or memorial parks.

He also advised travelers to keep safe during the holiday break.

“Sa lahat po nang magbabakasyon o out-of-town ngayon, mag-ingat po tayo sa biyahe. Panatilihing malinis ang mga sementeryo at ingatan ang inyong mga kagamitan (To everyone who is going on vacation or out-of-town today, be careful on your trip. Keep cemeteries clean and secure your belongings),” Marcos said.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) has established some 4,866 police assistance desks in all public cemeteries, memorial parks, columbaria, and catacombs around the country.

Over 27,000 PNP personnel will also be deployed nationwide, as part of heightened alert measures for All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days.

The Philippine Coast Guard has also been placed under “heightened alert” status since Oct. 25 until Nov. 5 to ensure the orderly operations of sea transport facilities, convenient sea travel, and security of tourists.

The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) meanwhile deployed personnel of its Emergency Medical Services to about 66 cemeteries in Metro Manila, as part of government preparations for the “Undas” observance.

Fire Chief Superintendent Nahum Tarroza also ordered the deployment of around 1,000 BFP personnel until Nov. 2.