Negros Oriental police ban liquor, heighten security for Undas

ILOILO CITY — The Negros Oriental Police Provincial Office (NOrPPO) has imposed a ban on alcoholic beverages inside cemeteries during the observance of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day this weekend, as part of heightened measures to keep the province peaceful and crime-free.

Lt. Stephen Polinar, NOrPPO spokesperson, said the directive aims to prevent trouble and maintain order in areas where people are expected to gather in large numbers.

“Provincial police director Col. Criscente Tiguelo already instructed all police chiefs to coordinate with their local government units on ordinances regulating activities in cemeteries during Undas,” Polinar told the Philippine News Agency on Friday.

Local ordinances, he added, vary per town and city—with some also prohibiting the carrying of firearms, playing loud music, and gambling inside cemeteries. Managers of private memorial parks are likewise authorized to impose their own house rules for visitors.

The NOrPPO will be on heightened alert from 29 October to 3 November, deploying all personnel across towns and cities, while a reactionary force remains on standby at the provincial headquarters for quick response.

Police assistance desks have been established at cemeteries, churches, terminals, ports, and airports to ensure security and provide public assistance during the long weekend.

At the same time, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has boosted its presence in major ports to assist travelers and prevent maritime incidents amid the surge of passengers.

Lt. Marionne Abigail Enopia, commander of Coast Guard Station Negros Oriental, said personnel are conducting safety inspections and monitoring port operations to ensure compliance with maritime safety protocols.

“We are prioritizing the safety of passengers and crew and ensuring smooth, organized travel throughout the Undas period,” Enopia said.

Authorities reminded the public to avoid bringing liquor, sharp objects, and loud sound systems to cemeteries, and to remain vigilant and cooperative to ensure a peaceful and meaningful Undas.