Make positive impact on society, Pinoys told

President Duterte has urged Filipinos to devote their time and energy in making a “positive and meaningful impact” on society as the country observes All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day.

In his message, the President joined the nation in remembering their departed loved ones, which Filipinos traditionally observe by visiting the graves of their loved ones.

“Let us dedicate our time, skills and knowledge so we may make a positive and meaningful impact on our society while we pursue meaningful goals for our people and country,” he said.

Uphold traditions

He added: “May this year’s observance inspire us to strengthen our faith and uphold our traditions as we deepen our bonds as a nation.”

Mr. Duterte visited the graves of his parents, Vicente and Soledad Duterte, on Thursday night in Davao City, ahead of the crowds expected this weekend.

He is scheduled to depart for Thailand on Friday to attend the 35th Association of Southeast Asian Nations summit and related summits in the next few days.

The President noted the Filipinos’ tradition of honoring “our dearly departed loved ones by praying for the eternal repose of their souls and cherishing fond memories of the time they spent with us.”

He also urged the public to “remember the lives of our saints who continue to guide us in our daily lives.”

As this developed, the Philippine National Police will remain on full alert status to respond to any call for assistance and prevent crimes during “Undas,” as more people were expected to flock to major cemeteries until Nov. 3.

PNP spokesperson Police Brig. Gen. Bernard Banac on Friday described the peace and order situation in public cemeteries in Metro Manila as normal, with no untoward incident so far reported.

To ensure the smooth flow of people visiting the graves of their departed loved ones, the PNP said it had assisted local government units (LGUs) in setting up metal barriers and railings to separate people coming in and coming out of cemeteries.

No vendors allowed

“Strictly no vendors were allowed inside cemeteries to give more space and prevent accumulation of trash and all items or contraband that may or could potentially cause harm to, or annoy others remain prohibited or will be confiscated,” Banac said.

On Friday, Police Brig. Gen. Debold Sinas, director of the National Capital Region Police Office, inspected the Manila North Cemetery, Loyola Memorial Park in Marikina and La Loma Cemetery in Caloocan and found the usual Undas “hot spots” to be orderly.

Sinas said the clearing operations led by LGUs helped ease congestion in cemeteries, particularly the dismantling of illegal structures in Manila North Cemetery that were being used as dens for petty crimes or drugs. —WITH A REPORT FROM MARIEJO S. RAMOS