Palace asks public: Abide by safety rules in cemeteries

Manila South Cemetery (INQUIRER FILE PHOTO/ EDWIN BACASMAS)

MANILA — Malacañang urged the public on Monday to abide by security regulations in cemeteries and to respect the solemnity of the annual commemoration of All Saints’ Day.

In a statement, Presidential Communications Secretary Martin Andanar reminded the people that bringing liquors, audio speakers and bladed items to memorial parks were strictly prohibited.

Andanar said the police and military have been conducting intelligence and security operations to ensure the safety of millions of Filipinos who would troop to the provinces during the four-day Halloween break.

In Metro Manila alone, he said the National Capital Region Police Office has stationed over 9,500 policemen in cemeteries, airports, seaports, bus terminals and other points of convergence until Nov. 2.

He also advised those spending the break away from their residences to follow the safety reminders of the Philippine National Police.

“As our people enjoy this rare four-day break… we remind them to secure their houses and make sure they are locked with all appliances unplugged before leaving,” he said. “And for motorists with private vehicles, do not forget to check their (vehicles’) proper operating condition and roadworthiness.”

Proclamation No. 1105 was signed in August 2015 by then President Benigno Aquino III declaring Oct. 31 and Nov. 1 as special non-working holidays for the observance of All Saints’ Day, one of the most important holidays in Asia’s only Catholic nation.  SFM/rga