FILE PHOTO: People flock to the grave of their loved ones during “Undas” in November 2016 in Barangka, Marikina, public cemetery. INQUIRER/EDWIN BACASMAS
MANILA, Philippines — Around 4,000 police officers will be stationed at different cemeteries, columbaria, and other places of convergence in Quezon City throughout the long break as the nation marks All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day – locally called “Undas.”
The Quezon City Police District (QCPD) said the 4,000 police officers will be positioned in those areas from Friday, October 28, until Thursday, November 3.
The Philippines is set to have an extended holiday since President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. declared October 31 (Monday) a special non-working holiday while All Saints’ Day on November 1 and All Souls’ Day on November 2 fall on a Tuesday and Wednesday.
According to QCPD chief Brig. Gen Nicolas Torre III, their force will be augmented by personnel from the National Capital Region Police Office, barangays (villages), Metro Manila Development Authority, and other concerned agencies.
He then reminded the public to be cautious and adhere to government-imposed protocols.
“Mahigpit po na ipinagbabawal ang pagdadala ng mga matatalim na bagay, baril, alak o anumang uri ng inuming nakakalasing at pagsusugal sa loob ng sementeryo,” Torre said in a statement.
(Bringing sharp objects, weapons, alcohol, or any intoxicating substance into the cemetery is strictly prohibited. Gambling will likewise not be allowed inside cemeteries.)
According to Torre, a police assistance desk in every cemetery and columbarium will be made available to provide immediate assistance to the public and help in police surveillance and other operations.
He further said the QCPD drone squadron would also be in action to deter criminal activity during the long break.
“Kung sakali man may mapansin kayong kahina-hinala at ‘di kaaya-aya sa inyong kapaligiran ay huwag mag-atubiling makipag-ugnayan sa ating mga kapulisan sa pamamagitan ng pagtawag sa hotline 122 at sinisigurado namin na sa loob ng dalawa hanggang tatlong minuto ay maaaksyonan ang inyong suliranin o hinaing,” Torre added.
(Feel free to call the 122 hotline if you see something suspicious or unsettling in your neighborhood, and we will respond as quickly as possible, usually within two or three minutes, to address your problem or complaint.)
The Philippine National Police (PNP) earlier said it had been preparing to go on full alert for this year’s Undas.
READ: PNP readies ‘full alert’ for Undas 2022; PCG now on ‘heightened alert’
Earlier Friday, PNP chief Gen. Rodolfo Azurin Jr. led police inspections at the Manila North Cemetery, Ninoy Aquino International Airport, Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange, and North Harbor.
RELATED STORIES
Several roads to close in Manila for Undas – MMDA
LIST: LGUs’ safety, health protocols for Undas 2022