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An estimated 40.7 million people visited cemeteries, memorial parks, and columbaria nationwide from October 30 to November 2 amid the observance of Undas 2026, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said Monday.
“Based on the nationwide monitoring report, an estimated 40,740,246 visitors had been recorded in 5,311 cemeteries, memorial parks, and columbaria from October 30 to November 2, as of 6:00 AM on November 2,” the PNP said in a statement.
“Of this figure, 1,695,440 visitors were recorded during the November 2 monitoring period as of 6 a.m.,” it added.
The PNP said it continues to sustain its nationwide security operations to ensure the safety of families visiting their departed loved ones on All Souls’ Day.
Police personnel remain deployed in cemeteries and other major convergence areas to assist visitors, manage crowds, maintain peace and order, and respond to public safety concerns.
Meanwhile, authorities have confiscated a total of 6,499 prohibited items nationwide including the following:
- 879 pointed or bladed weapons
- 62 alcoholic drinks
- 2,817 lighters
- 1,739 cigarette and vape products
- 180 cooking materials
- 397 flammable substances
The PNP said its deployment is supported by personnel from other government agencies and community force multipliers, with police assistance desks and emergency response teams positioned to help visitors.
PNP chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. reminded the public to remain vigilant, secure their personal belongings, keep children within sight, and follow cemetery regulations.
“Alam naming mahalaga ang araw na ito sa bawat pamilyang Pilipino. Kaya habang inaalala ninyo ang inyong mga mahal sa buhay, narito ang inyong kapulisan upang tumulong at tiyaking ligtas ang inyong pagdalaw,” Nartatez said.
(We know this day is important to every Filipino family. So as you remember your loved ones, your police force is here to help and ensure your visit is safe.)
“Hindi lamang kami nakabantay sa seguridad; handa rin kaming umalalay sa sinumang nangangailangan,” he added.
(We are not only on guard for security, we are also ready to assist anyone in need.)
November 1 (All Saints’ Day) and November 2 (All Souls’ Day) were earlier declared as special non-working days to allow people to visit the tombs of their departed loved ones as part of tradition. — RSJ, GMA News
