Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno" Domagoso issued a stern warning to pickpockets and troublemakers to stay away from cemeteries and areas of public convergence during Undas.

During an ambush interview at the Manila North Cemetery, Domagoso said the city has already given ample warning to those planning to commit crimes during the busy All Saints’ and All Souls’ Day season.

Authorities have assured the public that increased police presence, CCTV monitoring, and mobile patrols will be deployed to maintain order and prevent crimes.

“Basta kami, nag-abiso na two weeks ago. Kayong mga tulisan at tolongges, huwag na kayong magbalak. Baka magkaroon ng insidente, kayo naman ang dadalawin next year (We already gave warnings two weeks ago. You thieves and troublemakers, don’t even think about it. If anything happens, next year it could be you who gets visited). You never know!”

He stressed that visitors deserve a peaceful and safe environment to pay respects to their loved ones.

“Saan ka nakakita, papasyalan ko lang pamilya ko tapos nanakawan pa ako 'di ba? Kaya payo ko lang: umiwas na lang kayo (Where have you seen that? I just visit my family and I get robbed, right? So, my advice is: just stay away).”

The mayor also pointed out that while authorities do not encourage vigilante action, the public’s patience can wear thin.

“Hindi ko rin mapipigilan ang taong-bayan kapag kinuyog kayo. We don’t encourage it, pero sa galit ng tao, ewan ko na lang (I also cannot stop the people if they mob you. We don’t encourage it, but with people’s anger, I don’t know what will happen).”

Domagoso reiterated that law enforcers will relentlessly pursue those who prey on cemetery visitors.

“Kung sakaling ginawa niyo pa rin, eh good luck. Dahil sabi ko nga, kapag ginawa niyo ‘yan sa Maynila, we’ll make sure, matter of time lang ‘yan. Few days, few hours, we’ll go after you. Hindi sulit. Magbagong-buhay na lang kayo, magbanat ng buto (If you still do it, good luck. Like I said, if you do that in Manila, we’ll make sure, it’s only a matter of time. A few days, a few hours, we’ll go after you. It’s not worth it. Just change your ways, work hard honestly).”

The mayor’s inspection comes as Manila prepares for thousands of visitors to the city’s cemeteries during the long Undas weekend.