The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Thursday reminded the public to stay alert and exercise caution during All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day, warning that opportunistic crimes such as theft, snatching, and robbery often rise during the holiday.

In a statement, PNP Acting Chief Police Lieutenant General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. emphasized that awareness is the first line of defense in crowded areas.

“Traditionally, the common incidents during Undas are theft, snatching, and robbery. These offenses thrive in large, distracted crowds where people let their guard down,” Nartatez said. “We want to empower our people to protect themselves and their families by remaining vigilant in crowded areas like cemeteries, terminals, and public transport hubs.”

Safety tips for the public

To reduce the risk of becoming a target, Nartatez advised:

• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash when visiting cemeteries, columbaria, and memorial sites.

• Do not keep gadgets or mobile phones in back pockets, which are vulnerable to pickpockets.

• Refrain from bringing liquor, weapons, sharp objects, or illegal drugs into cemeteries.

• Exercise extra caution and keep an eye on children, senior citizens, and pregnant individuals in crowded spaces.

Police measures

The PNP has deployed over 50,000 personnel nationwide and is on heightened alert from 29 October 2025 to 03 November 2025. Regional and provincial commanders have been instructed to identify high-risk areas such as busy cemeteries, transport terminals, and major roads for increased patrol and saturation deployment.

Police intelligence units are monitoring potential criminal groups and threat actors to prevent incidents before they occur. Police assistance desks have also been established to facilitate reports of lost items, emergencies, or suspicious activity.

Nartatez urged the public to cooperate with authorities:

“Tulong-tulong po dapat tayo. I-report agad sa pinakamalapit na police assistance desk kung may kahina-hinalang tao o pangyayari. Sama-sama nating siguraduhin na ligtas at mapayapa ang Undas 2025.” (“We must help one another. Report any suspicious person or incident immediately to the nearest police assistance desk. Together, let us ensure Undas 2025 is safe and peaceful.”)