MANILA, Philippines — With more than a million visitors anticipated for Undas at the Manila North Cemetery (MNC), Mayor Isko Moreno is advising senior citizens to consider coming on off-peak days to avoid health risks amid large crowds.
“The weather is very humid. This may cause hardship to the elderly visitors’ health. As we all know, we have El Niño upon us,” Moreno said.
City health officer Grace Padilla suggested that visitors wear light clothing and to bring refreshments and protection against possible rain.
Padilla echoed Moreno’s appeal for the vulnerable population to wear face masks amid large crowds, as influenza-like illnesses may spread in densely packed areas.
MNC director Daniel Tan said the city government deployed 100 e-tricycles to offer free rides to visitors, making their movements around the 54-hectare cemetery easier. The e-tricycles will be available only until today.
At the Manila South Cemetery, road closures were imposed along Kalayaan Avenue, South Avenue, Vito Cruz Avenue Extension and Pililla Street.
Moreno reiterated that liquor, sharp objects, firearms, noise equipment and pets are prohibited inside the memorial grounds.
“Our intention is to make this occasion solemn. A time for families to come together, visit the graves of their departed loved ones and pray for the peace of their souls,” Moreno said.
In Malabon, the city government opened a new crematory and interment facility at the Tugatog Public Cemetery.
Mayor Jeannie Sandoval led the inauguration yesterday to provide residents with additional facilities for cremation, funeral services and interment.
At the Ninoy Aquino International Airport, Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon led officials in inspecting the NAIA to ensure the safety, security and convenience of passengers, as part of Oplan Biyaheng Ayos.
Office for Transportation Security administrator Gilberto DC Cruz said the OTS has intensified security measures and strengthened its coordination with law enforcement agencies and airport operators to ensure a unified approach to airport security.
The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board has set up more than 80 LTFRB help desks at bus stations and other public land transportation hubs across the country.
Acting LTFRB Chairman Greg Pua Jr. said the help desk is tasked to provide basic information on travel schedules and provide assistance, especially to senior citizens and persons with disabilities.
“Our personnel manning the help desks were instructed to extend all the courtesy and assistance especially to those with special needs,” Pua said.
Millions of passengers are expected to troop to bus stations and other major transportation hubs to go to their home provinces for All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day.