All Saints' Day 'generally peaceful' – PNP

THE Philippine National Police (PNP) declared the observance of All Saints' Days nationwide «generally peaceful,» as more that 3 million Filipinos, despite the gloomy weather, paid their respects to their dearly departed.

Col. Jean Fajardo, PNP Public Affairs Office chief, said some 28,000 policemen were deployed in various cemeteries and memorial parks and columbaria nationwide.

Fajardo said aside from the tight security, the public cooperated by not bringing prohibited items, such as lighters, alcohol, cigarettes, and bladed weapons inside the cemeteries.

PNP Chief Benjamin Acorda Jr., visited selected cemeteries in Manila and Quezon City to ensure that police personnel posted in their designated areas performed their tasks.

As of 12 noon, the PNP recorded 828, 387 people in cemeteries nationwide, comparatively higher than 2022 during the pandemic.

At about 2 p.m. there was a surge in the number of people inside the North and South Cemeteries despite the rain and the crowd started to wane at dusk.

In Marikina, Loyola Memorial Park policemen and force multipliers and local officials were overwhelmed by the people who arrived as early as 7 a.m. altough their numbers dwindled due to heavy rain.

Most Metro Manila cemeteries were closed at 5 p.m. while others extended until 6 p.m. In the provinces, however, visitors were permitted to stay overnight.

«The PNP remains vigilant, prepared, and dedicated to maintaining peace and order in various key locations across the country,» Acorda said.

At least 34,618 force multipliers backed 43, 202 law enforcers deployed nationwide with 27,161 PNP personnel posted in key locations, including 3,808 memorial parks, public cemeteries, and columbaria.

«Their presence aims to maintain peace and order, prevent criminal activities, and address any emergency situations promptly,» Acorda said.

He emphasized the importance of the safety and security of citizens, especially during occasions when large numbers of people gather, «We want everyone to be able to observe this important tradition without any concerns about their well-being. Our officers are fully prepared to ensure a peaceful environment for everyone.»