ISABELA CITY, BASILAN - The Armed Forces of the Philippines and Philippine National Police are placed on alert status for the coming observance of All Souls Day (Undas) on November 1.

The 4th Civil Relations Group of the AFP said in a press statement that security authorities are expecting people will flock in the cemeteries all over the country.

“After ensuring honest, orderly and peaceful barangay and SK elections recently, government forces shift its focus on preparations for All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day,” says Lt Colonel Gamal S Hayudini PAF, Group Commander of the 4th Civil Relations Group, Civil Relations Service of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

Hayudini said that deployment of personnel in cemeteries will be maximized to prevent the entry of handguns, bladed weapons, liquor and other intoxicating drinks as these items are prohibited inside cemeteries.

“Likewise, we advice the public not to bring any gambling materials like play cards and videoke since these are also not allowed within the cemetery perimeters instead, focus on the ritual respect to their beloved departed love ones,” the official added.

Hayudini further said that the military will augment police visibility in those areas since government forces’ presence have been proven to be an effective deterrent to crime. Security templates will be observed but the focus of the military and police will be in cemeteries, he added.

Meanwhile, transport re-routing schemes will be coordinated with the local government units to avoid monstrous traffic jams during the holiday.