Comprehensive measures implemented in Metro Manila for ‘Undas’

Traffic builds up on EDSA Guadalupe (File photo by MARIANNE BERMUDEZ / Philippine Daily Inquirer)

MANILA, Philippines — Local governments in Metro Manila are taking steps to ensure the safety and security of citizens during the observance of All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days — collectively known as “Undas.”

From Oct. 29 to Nov. 2, cities in the National Capital Region will observe stringent protocols, road closures, and traffic rerouting in alignment with ongoing safety measures.

The Quezon City government’s “Oplan Kaluluwa” is aimed at ensuring the safety of citizens visiting cemeteries and columbaries. The operation will be overseen by the QC Law and Order Cluster, with more than 600 personnel deployed from morning to evening.

Public interment activities will be temporarily suspended from Oct. 31 to Nov. 2, with cleaning and tomb decoration halting on Oct. 30 at 5 p.m.

Mayor Honey Lacuña-Pangan has issued Executive Order No. 34, imposing a liquor ban in the City of Manila from Oct. 29 to Nov. 2.

Traffic management

Road closures and rerouting plans have been outlined to manage traffic around the Manila North Cemetery.

Col. Bonny Serrano Avenue in San Juan City will be transformed into a one-way street from Oct. 28 to Nov. 2, facilitating the movement of vehicles to San Juan Cemetery.

Mayor Francis Zamora has emphasized strict adherence to regulations, including prohibitions on firearms, alcoholic beverages, gambling, and activities causing loud noises within the cemetery premises.

Rerouting scheme

To mitigate potential traffic congestion around Loyola Memorial Park, Marikina City has introduced a rerouting scheme. A. Bonifacio Avenue and Sumulong Highway will operate as one-way streets from Oct. 31, 12 noon, to Nov. 2 at 12 midnight.

Parañaque City unveiled a traffic rerouting plan to facilitate the movement of citizens visiting public and private cemeteries within the city. Two lanes will be allocated for visitors to and from the Manila Memorial Park, with a separate lane designated for passing through without stopping.

Mandaluyong City will implement road closures and traffic rerouting near cemeteries on All Saints’ Day. Specific routes have been outlined for vehicles heading to Aglipay Cemetery and Paradise Cemetery, ensuring a smooth flow of traffic. Road closures will be lifted after Nov. 1.

Pasig City government has announced temporary traffic adjustments starting from Oct. 31, 2 p.m., until Nov. 1.

C. Raymundo Avenue will be converted into a one-way street for northbound vehicular traffic, aiming to enhance traffic flow during the commemoration period.