As Filipinos flock to cemeteries and bus terminals for Undas, the government assured the public of its readiness to maintain stable prices and public safety throughout the long weekend.

Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro said Friday that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., before leaving for South Korea to attend the APEC Summit, directed all agencies concerned to be on full alert and ensure smooth operations nationwide.

“The President has ordered all agencies to stay ready and prepared for Undas. Even the prices of goods are being monitored to ensure a better experience for consumers,” Castro said in Filipino.

Vice President Sara Duterte also called on Filipinos to take the true essence of faith to their hearts, to give importance to the saints, and to recall their departed loved ones with heartfelt remembrance.

Duterte also urged Filipinos to continue praying for the peace and tranquility of the souls of their departed.

“May their memory be an inspiration in every step of our lives,” she said.

“This All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days, may unity and hope prevail in every Filipino family. Let’s face each day with faith, hope and love,” the Vice President added.

Meanwhile, the Department of Social Welfare and Development mobilized its field offices to provide immediate assistance to travelers and those stranded on their way to the provinces.

Relief items such as ready-to-eat food packs, family packs, and non-food supplies have been prepositioned.

Health Secretary Ted Herbosa inspected emergency tents along the South Luzon Expressway to ensure that medical aid is available to travelers amid the heavy traffic and rising temperatures.

DTI chief on road

Trade Secretary Cristina Roque made the rounds of public markets earlier this week, ensuring that the prices of candles, flowers, and basic goods remain stable. She praised retailers for keeping costs reasonable and said the Department of Trade and Industry will continue price monitoring throughout the Undas period.

Meanwhile, Philippine National Police Acting Chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. ordered intensified patrols in cemeteries, passenger terminals, and major thoroughfares.

The PNP deployed 31,200 officers nationwide, reinforced by 11,700 personnel from the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Bureau of Fire Protection, and Philippine Coast Guard, as well as 29,900 barangay tanods and volunteer groups.

Castro described the government’s readiness as “very high,” noting that the annual observance is one the government has long prepared for.

“This happens every year, so the government is well prepared,” she said.