THE Philippine National Police (PNP) on Friday instructed all its units nationwide to set up assistance desks and to maximize their security presence in the cemeteries and memorial parks as Filipinos observed the upcoming All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day holidays, popularly known as ‘Undas’ in the country.
In a statement, PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said all needs of people must be covered at the assistance desks in coordination with local government units and other stakeholders-from cases of missing children to medical assistance and other emergency situations.
He added that security measures should also be in place for small quarrels that may turn violent in the cemeteries.
Nartatez also stressed the need for strict screening at the entry points and regular patrols inside to check violations of regulations like drinking sessions and use of karaoke.
‘We will ensure that our personnel remain visible, approachable, and ready to respond to every request for assistance, especially from children, senior citizens, and other vulnerable individuals. Our presence must provide genuine reassurance to the public, and every police officer must serve with professionalism, compassion, and a strong sense of responsibility,’ he added.
Likewise, Nartatez tasked police commanders to focus on homes that may be left unattended during the holiday break and areas where thieves could take advantage of crowds.
‘Before leaving home, make sure all doors and windows are secured, electrical appliances are safely switched off, and valuables are kept out of sight. I have directed our police units to intensify neighborhood patrols and coordinate with barangay officials to deter burglars and protect homes left unattended during Undas,’ he added.
The PNP has mobilized more than 141,000 personnel and force multipliers nationwide for security, traffic management, and public assistance operations. The deployment covers 73,034 PNP personnel, 16,560 personnel from other government units, and 51,578 force multipliers.
Police operations will cover 5,311 cemeteries and columbaria as, well, as major thoroughfares, transportation hubs, places of worship, tourist destinations, and other strategic areas nationwide.
With crowds expected to swell ahead of All Saints’ Day on Nov. 1 and All Souls’ Day on Nov. 2, Nartatez reminded cemetery-goers to guard their belongings and remain alert in crowded areas where thieves may exploit distractions.
‘Stay vigilant, keep your valuables secure, avoid displaying large amounts of cash or expensive jewelry, and never leave your belongings unattended. Criminals take advantage of distraction and crowded places, so remain alert, look after your loved ones, and immediately report suspicious activities to the nearest police personnel,’ he said.
All PNP offices and units will be under full alert status from 12:01 a.m. on Oct. 30 until 12:01 a.m. on Nov. 3.