Nartatez directs full readiness for Undas

Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. directed all regional commands and police units nationwide to finalize operational security plans ahead of the upcoming All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day observances in November.

The security order follows executive directives from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. issued through Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla, mandating comprehensive safety coverage across public spaces during national holiday travel.

Malacañang has designated 1 November (All Saints’ Day) and 2 November (All Souls’ Day) as special non-working days, drawing millions to public and private burial grounds nationwide.

In the capital, major facilities such as the Manila North Cemetery will operate under extended hours from 5 a.m. to 8 p.m. between 29 October and 2 November.

“We will deploy police assistance desks, foot patrols, mobile teams, and emergency response units in and around cemeteries to ensure that help is always within reach of the public,” Nartatez said.

“We will maintain a strong and visible police presence in key areas so families can focus on honoring their loved ones with confidence and peace of mind,” he added.

Under the operational security plan, police assistance desks will be positioned at cemetery entrances and major transit hubs to handle lost-and-found incidents, family reunions for missing children, emergency medical triage, and immediate crime reports.

Mobile patrols will maintain round-the-clock coverage to deter petty theft, illegal gambling, and unauthorized intrusions in high-density areas.

Nartatez confirmed that all PNP operational and support units have been placed under heightened readiness to manage traffic congestion, crowd control, and emergency response throughout the holiday week.

“As we honor the memory of our departed loved ones, let us also look after the safety of the living by remaining vigilant, following cemetery rules, and cooperating with authorities,” Nartatez said.