Manila Mayor Francisco ‘Isko Moreno’ Domagoso on Thursday reminded Filipinos, who are planning to visit cemeteries in their city for this year’s Undas to behave appropriately, emphasizing that the resting places of departed loved ones must be treated with respect.
“Igalang ang lugar — ito ay sagradong lugar, hindi party o tugtugan (Respect the area—this is a sacred place, not meant for parties or loud music),” he said in a Facebook live address as he announced ongoing preparations by the city government for the annual All Saints and All Souls Days.
Domagoso highlighted that their comprehensive Undas policies are anchored on order, discipline, and public cooperation to ensure the safety of millions expected to visit burial sites in the city.
Visitors are reminded that from October 29 to November 2, all types of vehicles — including motorcycles, e-bikes, tricycles, and cars — will be prohibited from entering both the Manila North and South Cemeteries, which will be open to the public daily from 5:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Mayor Isko also echoed earlier advisories that the last day for cleaning, repainting, and repairing tombs at the Manila North Cemetery will be on October 27, while the last day for burials will be October 28.
Meanwhile, at the Manila South Cemetery, the last day of tomb maintenance is October 26, with burials accepted only until October 28.
Domagoso added that the adjacent Islamic Cemetery will also follow the same rules and schedules.
To assist visitors, Manila encourages people to access the city’s digital platforms—ManilaNorthCemetery.ph and ManilaSouthCemetery.com—which feature online “Puntod Finders” to locate graves, as well as tagging systems for children, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities.
The city government will provide free water stations, wheelchairs, and portable toilets, supported by the Manila Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO), Red Cross, Manila Traffic and Parking Bureau (MTPB), Philippine National Police (PNP), and Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP).
The mayor also listed prohibited items inside the cemeteries, including firearms, bladed weapons, alcoholic beverages, pets, loud sound systems, and flammable materials such as alcohol and thinner.
Domagoso also issued a stern warning to thieves and opportunists ahead of Undas 2025, saying the city has deployed plainclothes police officers and installed CCTV cameras in major cemeteries. He reminded potential wrongdoers to respect the solemn observance.
“Huwag niyo na pong balakin… Tandaan ninyo, ang mga tao po diyan ay bumibisita sa kanilang mga mahal sa buhay. Baka sa susunod, kayo na ang bisitahin (Don’t even think about it… Remember, the people there are visiting their loved ones. Next time, you could be who they come to visit),” he said.
Domagoso also reminded the public to dispose of trash properly, refrain from vending inside cemeteries, and remain vigilant amid the large crowds.
