PROBE clears tombstone shops in Carreta, Calamba

CEBU, Philippines — At least 50 tombstone makers were affected by the clearing operations conducted by the personnel of Prevention, Restoration, Order, Beautification, and Enhancement (PROBE) Team outside the two biggest public cemeteries in Cebu City yesterday.

PROBE Team head Raquel Arce said the clearing operations outside the cemeteries of Carreta and Calamba were part of the preparations for the All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day. Arce said the affected tombstone sellers should look for another place where they cannot cause obstruction.

"Ang ilang i-display anha sa sidewalk. Magbutang lang sila og telephone number or asa sila ma-contact aron mag-negotiate sila sa ilahang customer," said Arce.

"They shall see to it nga passable gihapon ang kalsada ug mga sidewalk," she added.

Arce explained that tombstone sellers are not being deprived of their livelihood. She said the city government only wanted them to understand that sidewalks are for public use.

"Dili gyud unta na intended for vending or for commercial purposes," said Arce.

The clearing operation outside the cemeteries is an annual activity of PROBE. Arce said they will continue clearing the roads and sidewalks of obstructions until the All Saints and All Souls Days.

She said the big public cemeteries are being prioritized because of the expected volume of people visiting their departed loved ones this week. The clearing operation will resume today in Pardo and Labangon cemeteries. (FREEMAN)