Less than two weeks before the nation’s observance of Undas, Filipinos began cleaning and repairing the graves of their deceased loved ones.
At the Manila North Cemetery, a woman said they opted to visit early to avoid large crowds during All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day (November 1 and 2).
In Bangui, Ilocos Norte, residents had also cleaned the graves while there were still few visitors.
The Malabon local government asked the families of their departed loved ones to get in touch with them if they are having difficulty finding the grave sites in the Tugatog Public Cemetery, which was renovated.
About 17,000 remains are in the Tugatog Cemetery, but not all of them have been moved to the ossuary or columbarium.
Others remain in storage and are currently being processed.
In Davao City, public cemeteries are open from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. from October 30 to November 3.
The local government unit also reminded the public of the prohibited clothing, items, and activities inside public cemeteries.
A “one entrance, one exit policy” will also be implemented to ensure smooth flow of visitors and motorists. — Sherylin Untalan/VBL, GMA Integrated News
