MANILA – Members of the vulnerable sector would get free rides inside the Manila North and Manila South cemeteries during the “Undas” holidays.
In a statement Monday, Mayor Honey Lacuna said eligible for the service are senior citizens, persons with disability and expectant mothers from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. on November 1 and 2, All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day, respectively.
She added that both cemeteries will be off-limits to any political activities during Undas to ensure a solemn observance.
The Manila Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office has been directed to provide standby ambulances and staff to attend to cases of emergency.
The Manila Health Department was also ordered to deploy doctors and medical staff, while the city government’s six district hospitals will be on high alert.
On the other hand, the Manila Department of Social Welfare would deploy employees to tag children before they are allowed in the cemeteries’ premises in case they get lost.
Vendors are not allowed while only local government tents can be installed inside cemeteries.
Portable toilets would be installed in various locations.
From October 30 to November 3, the two city government-run cemeteries are off limits to vehicles while all interment and cremation activities are suspended.
Cleaning and refurbishments of tombs at the Manila North Cemetery is until October 25 only.
Intoxicating drinks, pets, flammable materials like thinner and paint, guns, knives or similar objects, paraphernalia for gambling, and playing of loud music are prohibited inside the cemeteries from October 28 to November 4. (PNA)