Strict liquor, weapons, loud noise bans enforced

Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso and regional police authorities issued strict guidelines and security measures on Friday as millions of visitors are expected to converge on cemeteries across Metro Manila for Undas 2026.

Following a final inspection of Manila North Cemetery alongside Cemetery director Daniel Tan, Domagoso declared the capital fully prepared for the holiday surge, noting that multi-agency operations involving local health, engineering, traffic, and police units have been underway for 10 days.

Road closures surrounding major burial grounds took effect at 7 a.m. Friday and will remain in place through 2 November, with thoroughfares reopening on 3 November.

Domagoso called for a solemn observance of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day, reminding the public that alcoholic beverages, bladed tools, firearms, and karaoke machines are strictly prohibited inside cemetery grounds.

Commercial vendors are barred from operating inside the perimeter and must stay within designated outer zones.

“Our intention as a city is to make this occasion solemn, where families gather to visit the remains of departed loved ones and pray for the peace of their souls,” Domagoso said.

The mayor urged visitors to carry containers for food waste and warned against constructing makeshift pedestrian bridges along A. Bonifacio Avenue, citing severe safety hazards along the heavy truck corridor.

He confirmed that police will immediately confiscate any unauthorized structures along the thoroughfare.

To assist visitors navigating Manila North Cemetery, management introduced digital direction guides and a “Puntod Finder” program to locate specific gravesites.

Municipal e-trikes will also provide free transportation within the grounds, with priority given to senior citizens and persons with disabilities.

Addressing public health concerns amid dense crowds, Domagoso advised elderly residents to consider visiting on off-peak days to avoid extreme heat and recommended that vulnerable individuals wear masks to reduce the risk of respiratory illnesses.