MANILA, Philippines — As road rehabilitation and reblocking works continue along major thoroughfares, Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) on Monday also ordered maintenance crews nationwide to ensure roads leading to cemeteries and churches are safe and passable ahead of the observance of "Undas" on Nov. 1 and 2, 2026.
Dizon directed all regional and district engineering offices to repair potholes, clear road obstructions and maintain national highways, particularly routes leading to public and private cemeteries.
In Metro Manila, priority routes include those serving the Manila North Cemetery, La Loma Cemetery and Manila Chinese Cemetery, where heavy pedestrian and vehicle traffic is expected during the annual observance of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day.
“All roads, particularly those leading to public cemeteries, should be cleared of any potholes or whatever damage,” Dizon said, describing the initiative as part of the DPWH’s annual Lakbay Alalay program.
The directive comes as major road rehabilitation and reblocking works continue in Metro Manila, including the EDSA Rehabilitation Project. Such construction and maintenance activities make traffic management and timely road repairs important, particularly during periods of increased travel.
Dizon ordered DPWH offices to deploy motorist assistance teams at strategic locations nationwide, with personnel, mechanics, service vehicles and equipment ready to respond to emergencies.
The teams will operate on a round-the-clock basis to assist motorists and pedestrians, provide emergency roadside support and help keep major thoroughfares free of obstructions.
Cemetery areas traditionally experience increased traffic and pedestrian activity during the November 1 and 2 observance, requiring coordination among national agencies and local governments.
The DPWH will also require its maintenance crews to ensure that cemetery routes have adequate lighting, warning signs and traffic advisories. Illegally parked vehicles, vendors and other obstructions that could impede traffic will also be addressed in coordination with concerned authorities.
Project engineers were directed to coordinate with contractors and relevant offices on the scheduling of ongoing roadworks and the installation of appropriate traffic advisories to minimize disruptions during the holiday period.
The agency will work with the Land Transportation Office, Philippine National Police and local government units to manage traffic and provide assistance where needed.
