SPEAKING OUT

This year’s All Saints’ Day observance in the Philippines was a poignant reminder of the deep-rooted cultural and spiritual traditions that bind the nation. As families gathered to honor their departed loved ones, they engaged in practices that reflect not only their faith but also their resilience in the face of life’s challenges.

Despite the mixed weather conditions, with rain forecasted in Luzon and Visayas due to Severe Tropical Storm Leon, Filipino families showed their unwavering commitment to this annual ritual. Days before All Saints’ Day, families prepared to go to the provinces as evidenced by overbooked bus trips going north and south from Manila. The weather did little to deter the thousands who visited cemeteries, particularly the Manila South Cemetery, which saw around 37,000 visitors by noon of Nov. 1. Such dedication underscores the importance of this tradition in Filipino culture.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s call for prayers resonated deeply this year, as many also remembered those affected by past storms Kristine and Leon. His message of faith, resilience, and hope served as a powerful reminder of the collective strength and unity of the Filipino people. It emphasized that All Saints’ Day is not just about remembering the dead but also about celebrating the values they imparted.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) played a crucial role in ensuring the safety of the public, deploying over 31,900 policemen nationwide. This significant presence helped manage the large crowds and traffic, especially those which host major cemeteries and memorial parks, where rerouting schemes were implemented to maintain order.

Another notable aspect of this year’s celebration was the heightened focus on health and sanitation. The Department of Health-Calabarzon placed hospitals and health facilities on “Code White Alert” to prepare for any medical emergencies, a necessary precaution given the large gatherings. The Office of Civil Defense’s deployment of water filtration machines to evacuation centers also highlighted the importance of clean drinking water during such events.

Community support was evident, with various organizations and local governments stepping in to provide assistance. The Department of Social Welfare and Development’s pre-positioning of 1.98 million food packs for those affected by recent storms demonstrated the nation's solidarity and preparedness.

However, amid the solemn observance, issues such as the illegal exhumation of remains in a Barangka, Marikina public cemetery and the increased risk of fires highlighted by the Bureau of Fire Protection serve as reminders of the challenges that need to be addressed. These incidents underscore the necessity for vigilance and stringent enforcement of regulations to protect the sanctity of the occasion and the safety of the public. The ubiquitous presence of political streamers has also become a permanent fixture in Undas celebrations. 

In reflecting on this year’s All Saints’ Day, it is clear that, on the whole,  the observance continues to be a cornerstone of Filipino identity. It is a time for families to come together, to remember and honor their loved ones, and to draw strength from their shared faith and traditions. As we move forward, let us carry the spirit of unity and compassion that this day fosters, ensuring that these values guide us in our everyday lives. ([email protected])