THE Manila Police District (MPD) is preparing security measures covering four Manila cemeteries for the observance of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day, according to Maj. Philipp Ines, MPD spokesman and chief public information officer.
Ines said more than 2 million people visited Manila North Cemetery, Manila South Cemetery, La Loma Cemetery, and Manila Chinese Cemetery in 2025. Manila North Cemetery alone recorded more than 1.7 million visitors.
Ines said authorities expect more visitors this year.
He urged the public to visit cemeteries early to avoid peak periods.
Ines said intelligence personnel would blend into crowds at cemeteries as part of the security preparations.
Police will conduct security checks at Manila North Cemetery and Manila Chinese Cemetery and secure access points not designated for entry or exit, he said.
Authorities will also check for prohibited items brought into the cemeteries.
Local government personnel will record visitors’ names and contact numbers at entrances to help locate people who become separated from their companions. Public address systems will also be available inside the cemeteries, Ines said.
Wheelchairs and personnel to assist persons with disabilities and senior citizens will be available at cemetery entrances. Vehicles will not be allowed inside the burial grounds.
Police personnel will also be deployed in crowded areas, including shopping districts, based on identified crime hotspots, he said.
Ines urged the public to cooperate with police and report suspicious activity.
He discussed the preparations during a media forum in Ermita, Manila, on Tuesday.
