The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Saturday, Oct. 31, called on the public to keep the commemoration of this year’s “Undas” as “peaceful and safe.”
“The Armed Forces of the Philippines joins every Filipino in the peaceful and safe commemoration of Undas. Though we are not allowed to flock to the final resting places of our loved ones, nothing will prevent us from remembering,” said General Gilbert Gapay, AFP Chief of Staff.
The national government earlier announced the closure of all cemeteries, memorial parks, and columbaria nationwide from Oct. 29 to Nov. 4 to prevent the potential spread of COVID-19 through mass gatherings.
It was the first time in recent history that cemeteries, memorial parks, and columbaria were closed to public on All Saints’ Day (Nov. 1) and All Souls’ Day (Nov. 2) due to the threat of the COVID-19 pandemic. Traditionally, millions of people flock to these areas to visit their dearly departed.
“We urge everyone to respect the temporary closure of these areas and follow social distancing rules until such time that the situation normalizes,” Gapay said.
Meanwhile, the AFP Chief also urged the public to remember the soldiers who paid the ultimate price while defending and serving the country and people.
“We likewise take this as an opportunity to honor our fallen soldiers who offered their lives in the line of duty. Let us also spare a moment to remember the innocent victims of conflict who died in the clutches of the enemies,” Gapay said.
“Their sacrifices will not be in vain and we the living shall carry on with the defense of our country’s peace and security,” he added.