Central Luzon police is on full alert with the anticipated influx of visitors in cemeteries and memorial parks for Undas 2021.

“I already instructed all our provincial directors and city directors to lead the inspection of all cemeteries and memorial parks to ensure that all of them are observing the minimum public health standards,” he said.

Police Regional Director PBGen. Valeriano De Leon emphasized that they have intensified measures to maintain peace inside and outside these areas and ensure the safety and orderly observance of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day.

The Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases earlier announced that all public and private cemeteries, and other similar places in the country will be closed from October 29 to November 2 to prevent large crowds and curb the spread of COVID-19.

Meanwhile, De Leon underscored that local government units (LGUs) can enact their own policies and guidelines to allow residents to visit the cemeteries ahead of the Undas closure.

“For now, we are giving them the chance to visit their departed loved ones but of course, while observing the minimum health standards. Definitely, the LGUs will be closing these places in the coming days, and the police will conduct patrols,” he stated.

About 111 out of the 658 total number of cemeteries in Central Luzon are still open to the public as of October 27.

In addition, Central Luzon police activated its Oplan Kaluluwa, which is traditionally implemented during the observance of Undas to secure cemeteries and enforce health protocols amid the pandemic. (PIA 3)