By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA — With Undas less than a month away, Manila North Cemetery is already putting its visitor-control and security measures in place as the annual observance approaches, while families are being given a limited window to complete the cleaning and preparation of graves.
The cemetery administration has set October 27 as the deadline for grave cleaning, repairs and repainting, followed by October 28 as the final day for burials before the special Undas arrangements take effect.
From October 29 to November 2, the cemetery will operate from 5 a.m. to 8 p.m. Vehicles will not be permitted inside the premises during the period.
Security coordination is also being undertaken with the Manila Police District, with police deployment and patrol operations being prepared for the expected increase in visitors.
Among the measures being readied are an Assistance Desk and Puntod Finder, along with wristbands for children to help families keep track of young visitors inside the crowded cemetery.
Transportation assistance and wheelchairs will also be made available for senior citizens and persons with disabilities.
The cemetery administration has likewise laid down restrictions on items and activities that could create security or safety problems during the observance.
Visitors will not be allowed to bring firearms, sharp objects, alcoholic beverages, pets, guitars, loud sound systems or flammable materials such as alcohol and thinner. Gambling inside the cemetery is also prohibited.
The traffic situation surrounding the cemetery is another part of the preparations.
The northbound lane of Dimasalang Bridge is scheduled to reopen on October 20, ahead of the Undas period, providing an additional route for motorists traveling through the area.
With the cemetery expected to become increasingly crowded as November 1 and 2 draw closer, authorities are urging families to complete their grave-cleaning activities before the October 27 cutoff rather than wait for the peak days.
The special arrangements will remain in force through November 2, with regular cemetery operations set to resume on November 3.
For cemetery officials, the preparations center on three priorities: keeping visitors moving, maintaining security and ensuring that families can observe Undas without unnecessary disruption.
