MANILA (UPDATED) — The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) announced on Monday that it has begun coordinating with Metro Manila traffic authorities, the Philippine National Police (PNP), and the Highway Patrol Group in preparation for the upcoming All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day (Undas) commemorations.
According to MMDA Traffic Enforcement Group Chief Atty. Victor Nunez, local government units (LGUs) have been instructed to submit their traffic management plans, including the schedules for major road closures, to prevent congestion, particularly on routes leading to cemeteries.
The MMDA has set an October 25 deadline for LGUs to submit their plans for road closures around major cemeteries.
The MMDA has also collaborated with representatives from major terminals in Quezon City, Caloocan, Pasay, Manila, and Parañaque in anticipation of the expected surge of travelers heading to the provinces beginning this weekend.
Nunez shared that 1,257 MMDA personnel will be deployed to manage the increased flow of passengers.
“Meron din kaming no day off, no absent policy during that time para ma-ensure ‘yung augmentation ng aming mga enforcers,” he said, emphasizing the agency’s commitment to managing the heightened activity.
In addition, commuter help desks will be set up, and the situation will be closely monitored from the MMDA headquarters.
Meanwhile, Manila North Cemetery (MNC) management reminded the public that tomb cleaning should be completed by October 26, 5 p.m., according to MNC Director Roselle “Yayay” Castañeda. Cremations and interments will only be allowed until October 29.
Castañeda also expects millions of visitors to arrive between October 30 and November 3. Last year, over 958,000 people visited the cemetery on November 1 alone.
She reiterated that sharp objects, firearms, loudspeakers, playing cards, bingo cards, and pets, including cats and dogs, will not be allowed inside the cemetery.
“So ngayon pa lang dini-discourage po namin kayo, kahit ang idahilan nila ay bitbit naman po at karga-karga lang po,” Castañeda said, urging the public to follow the rules.
This year, MNC will enforce a no-vendor policy inside the cemetery.
The main gate near the Chinese General Hospital will be the only entry point, and cars will not be allowed inside starting October 30.
Portable toilets will be available, and e-trikes will be deployed to assist senior citizens and persons with disabilities.