The Quezon City Police District (QCPD) reported a “successful and largely peaceful” observance of All Saints’ Day, known as Undas, attributed to “extensive pre-event planning and the establishment of Police Assistance Desks at key locations, including transport hubs and cemeteries.” In its preparation for Undas, QCPD, along with other city offices, increased police presence across areas with high public traffic to ensure security for the hundreds of thousands of residents and visitors.
Acting District Director P/Col. Melecio Buslig Jr. praised the efforts of QCPD personnel, barangay tanods (village guards), and various community support groups for their roles in managing public safety and directing traffic. The observance of Undas holds significant cultural and spiritual importance in the Philippines, where families visit cemeteries to honor deceased loved ones. For Quezon City, one of the country’s largest metropolitan areas, this holiday presents a unique challenge as it requires coordination between multiple government agencies to manage both safety and logistical needs.
The NCRPO’s deployment of over 12, 000 personnel, together with support from the MMDA and local government units, played a vital role in ensuring an organized and calm atmosphere. This year’s observance marked an improvement over previous years, where overcrowding, traffic disruptions, and petty crimes had sometimes marred the holiday.