Allegations of grave defacement, exorbitant fees spark outrage

Residents in Mogpog, Marinduque and nearby municipalities are up in arms over alleged “atrocities” committed by the management of the Ala-Ala Memorial Park — ranging from exorbitant fees to the unlawful desecration of graves.

In reports sent to DAILY TRIBUNE, aggrieved residents lashed out at the management’s misconduct and exploitation of grieving families, citing excessive increases in cemetery fees.

One resident noted that the park has implemented oppressive policies, such as doubling or tripling maintenance and renewal costs, without clear justification or public consultation.

“They have not given us the chance to have consultations regarding the fees; they said they want to impose a one-year payment for maintenance,” said Dennis Mangcucang, a lot owner, in an interview.

Mangcucang revealed that even his mother’s grave was defaced with a red “X” painted over it, which comes after a provincial board member’s call for an immediate investigation into the park’s operations.

“There are instances where headstones are removed, families are prohibited from maintaining their mausoleums, and are met with harsh words when they attempt to visit,” he added.

Mangcucang also narrated an incident where an interment was halted due to payment disputes, forcing a family to have their deceased loved one cremated in another municipality.

“This is truly an injustice; the management is showing an utter lack of respect for the eternal rest of the departed,” he said.

While seeking legal remedies, Mangcucang said that residents have spoken with the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development. The agency has directed them to consolidate their grievances for a formal review.

Other residents complained that the park prohibits lot owners from hiring their own contractors to build mausoleums.

On social media, a netizen identified as Seller Nolos condemned the defacement of tombs over non-payment. He cited Act No. 1458 and the Code on Sanitation, alongside the Revised Penal Code, which imposes penalties for acts that offend religious feelings or constitute grave desecration.

The management of Ala-Ala Memorial Park has yet to comment on the allegations.