(UPDATE) Millions flock to cemeteries on All Saints' Day

MANILA, Philippines (Xinhua) - Millions of Filipinos flocked to cemeteries to honor their departed loved ones on the All Saints' Day.

At the North Cemetery, the largest cemetery in Metro Manila which covers 54 hectares of land, there were around 1 million people at the peak.

Starting from the early morning, the road leading to the cemetery was packed with people. Vendors sold flowers and candles to tomb-goers.

Police remained on full alert. The Manila Police District built a special task force to ensure safety during this long weekend.

All Saints' Day, which falls on Nov. 1 each year, is a widely celebrated religious holiday in the Philippines. People pay respect to their loved ones that have passed away.

Ports and bus stations also had long queues as many families went out of Metro Manila to their hometowns in provinces.