MMDA: Burials to still be allowed despite closure of cemeteries during Undas

MANILA, Philippines — Burials and “other regular things” done in cemeteries will still be allowed even though cemeteries will be closed during Undas season, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority said Monday.

MMDA General Jojo Garcia issued the clarification after Metro Manila mayors agreed to close cemeteries for one week during Undas season to avoid mass gathering in cemeteries.

READ: Metro Manila cemeteries closed during ‘Undas’

It has been the tradition of Filipinos to flock to cemeteries to visit their departed loved ones during All Saints’ Day (Nov. 1) and All Souls Day (Nov. 2).

“Isasara kasi yan [cemeteries] so hindi makakapasok ang mga tao pero kung yan ay libing, ‘yung regular na ginagawa sa sementeryo, may libing, may ice-cremate, definitely pwede yan,” Garcia told reporters in an online press conference.

“Ang iniiwasan lang natin ay ‘yung mass gathering kasi sabay sabay pupunta yan sa cemeteries to celebrate All Saints Day at All Souls Day,” he added.

The date of the implementation of the cemetery closures in Metro Manila is yet to be decided by the Inter-Agency Task Force against Infectious Diseases (IATF).

Garcia said Metro Manila mayors have recommended implementation three days before and four days after Nov. 1, or vice versa.

JE