MANILA, Philippines — Manila City Mayor Honey Lacuna said around 44 metric tons (MT) of garbage, equivalent to 15 truckloads, were collected at the Manila North Cemetery on Wednesday following the start of the Undas 2024 period.
“As of October 30, some 44 metric tons of garbage have been collected from the North Cemetery, equivalent to over 15 truckloads,” a statement read.
The statement added that about 50 truckloads were collected at the Manila South Cemetery on the same day.
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Lacuna reminded visitors of the cemetery to practice CLAYGO (clean as you go) and to bring their own trash bags.
“While we have cleanup measures in place, we still appeal to all cemetery visitors to Clean As You Go or CLAYGO, so that they do not leave trash at the gravesites and along the pathways within the cemeteries,” Lacuna said in the same statement.
The mayor also urged visitors to avoid bringing prohibited items into the cemetery.
“Only the police are allowed to have firearms on the premises. If you have personal safety and security concerns, seek the assistance of the police as you enter the cemetery and deposit your weapons with them,” Lacuna said.
The Manila Local Government Unit previously advised visitors that the following are not allowed inside the cemetery:
- Vendors
- Firearms and sharp objects
- Alcoholic beverages
- Pets
- Guitars, loud sound systems
- Flammable materials, cigarettes, lighters
- Tarpaulins of private or political groups
A total of 5,030 visitors trooped to the Manila North Cemetery on Wednesday, and 528 prohibited items were confiscated.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) said on Thursday that the confiscated items may be claimed on Sunday or Monday at the office of the Manila North Cemetery.
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The PNP also said that around one million visitors are expected to arrive at the cemetery on Friday.