The local government of Marikina City conducted inspections of all cemeteries in the city to ensure an orderly, safe, and peaceful observance of this year's All Saint’s Day and All Soul’s Day.
The city government is expecting around 600,000 cemetery-goers for Undas.
Mayor Marjorie Ann "Maan" Teodoro and Marikina First District Representative Marcelino "Marcy" Teodoro, on Wednesday, 29 October, and Thursday, 30 October, inspected the Loyola Memorial Park, Barangka Municipal Cemetery, Aglipay Cemetery, Holy Child Cemetery, Our Lady of the Abandoned Cemetery, and St. Paul of the Cross Parish Columbarium.
The Bureau of Fire Protection, key city hall officials, and personnel from the city parks and development office have been deployed to ensure that all cemeteries are clean, well-maintained, and safe for visitors.
The city government has also mobilized the health office, the local police, the office of public safety and security, Marikina Rescue 161, the waste management office, and other concerned departments and force multipliers who will be stationed across the city’s five cemeteries to maintain order and provide assistance throughout the Undas observance.
Teodoro urged the public to follow the guidelines and regulations set by the local government to ensure their safety and security.
The mayor also called on the public to help maintain cleanliness in cemeteries by properly disposing of their waste and refraining from littering.
“Also, we ask the public to do their part in keeping our cemeteries clean. Let us be mindful of our surroundings by properly disposing of waste and avoid littering,” she said.
According to the mayor, vendors will be regulated to keep pathways around cemetery entrances clear, and will only be allowed in designated areas to avoid congestion.
“As a reminder, certain items are prohibited inside cemeteries, including firearms, sharp objects, alcoholic beverages, and gambling paraphernalia,” she added.
As part of its Undas preparations, the city government has opened a one-stop shop for candles and flowers at Freedom Park, located in front of City Hall.
At the same time, traffic schemes have been implemented throughout Marikina to maintain an orderly flow of vehicles.
“Please follow these guidelines to ensure a smooth and respectful visit to honor your departed loved ones,” Teodoro said.
The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) is also gearing up for this year's Undas by mobilizing 2,200 first aiders and 92 chapters, covering 314 areas nationwide.
According to the Philippine Red Cross, 284 First Aid Stations and 141 Welfare Desks will be established all over the country.
The complete list of areas to be covered include 246 cemeteries, 23 chapter vicinities, 14 bus terminals, 11 seaports, 8 highways, 4 command posts, 3 gas stations, 2 airports, 2 barangay halls, a church, and a train station.
During the holidays, the PRC will be activating all 180 ambulance units with 63 ambulances deployed on the ground and the rest on standby for dispatch. In addition, 58 mobile units (service vehicles), 100 on-foot patrol units, and 2,200 first aiders will be mobilized to ensure full coverage and accommodation of individuals who may need immediate treatment or medical assistance.
The majority of the stations will be set up on Thursday, October 30—with some a day earlier in anticipation of early visitors to the cemeteries. The Philippine Red Cross’ Undas Operations are expected to last until Sunday, 2 November.
PRC Chairman and CEO Richard Gordon reassured the people that the PRC is prepared to assist the influx of people that will be visiting cemeteries and public spaces for this year’s Undas.
“As families come together to remember their loved ones this Undas, the Philippine Red Cross stands ready to serve. Our volunteers, staff, and assets are strategically placed and will be on high alert to ensure that every Filipino can commemorate safely and with peace of mind.”
On the other hand, PRC Secretary General Dr. Gwen Pang reminds everyone to remain vigilant, especially during this Undas season.
"On behalf of the PRC, we would like to remind everyone leaving their homes to unplug electric appliances, lock doors, and never have lit candles unattended. As congestion between stations, roads, and cemeteries are projected to worsen, we encourage everyone to bring their own first aid kits and essentials in case of emergencies.”