Manila cemeteries set Oct. 27 deadline for tomb cleaning ahead of Undas
File Photos - Filipinos flocked to the Manila North Cemetery and Manila South Cemetery on Wednesday, November 1, 2023, to visit their departed loved ones on All Saints’ Day. (Arnold Quizol/MANILA BULLETIN)
The management of the Manila North Cemetery (MNC) and Manila South Cemetery (MSC) has announced that Oct. 27 is the deadline for cleaning and maintenance of tombs in preparation for the annual Undas (All Saints’ and All Souls’ Day) observance.
Cemetery officials expect an estimated two million visitors to flock to the Manila North Cemetery alone between October 29 and Nov. 2, as Filipinos pay tribute to their departed loved ones.
In line with the nationwide observance, the MNC administration said that Oct. 28 will be the last day for burials, and starting that date, no vehicles will be allowed to enter the cemetery premises to reduce congestion and maintain safety.
Officials also announced a strict ban on vendors inside and near the main entrances of both cemeteries to provide clear access for the expected influx of visitors.
The Manila North and South Cemeteries will be open daily from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. from Oct. 29 to Nov. 2, according to the city government.
Visitors are encouraged to use the locator system provided by cemetery management to help them find the exact location of their loved ones’ graves quickly and conveniently.
Meanwhile, the Manila Police District (MPD) and cemetery administrators assured the public of heightened security throughout the Undas period.
Authorities reiterated that bringing deadly weapons, alcoholic beverages, and loud or disruptive items inside the cemeteries will be strictly prohibited.
The city government reminded the public to observe cleanliness, respect, and orderliness while visiting their loved ones during the observance of All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days.