MANILA, Philippines ? The Philippine National police (PNP) has placed the entire country under heightened alert status ahead of the observance of All Saints? Day and All Souls? Day on November 1 and 2, respectively.

In a statement Saturday, PNP Director General Jesus Verzosa reminded the public to refrain from bringing firearms and other weapons, alcoholic drinks, illegal drugs, videoke machines and gambling paraphernalia to cemeteries.

?People are advised not to leave their homes unattended but to coordinate with barangay [village] authorities to provide security if they have no other alternatives,? Verzosa said.

Verzosa said the police would also be on guard against attacks by lawless groups and insurgents on vital installations and infrastructure.

?Police regional offices and the Traffic Management Group in Luzon [are] directed to establish public assistance centers along highways and thoroughfares leading to provinces in north and south Luzon,? Verzosa said.

?In Metro Manila, police districts [are] instructed to provide security and ensure order in land transportation terminals.? Marlon Ramos