Manila North, South cemeteries gear up for Undas

MANILA, Philippines —  The Manila North and South cemeteries have announced its schedules and visitor guidelines ahead of Undas, or the observance of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day in November.

Interment would be permitted only until Oct. 28 in both cemeteries, officials said.

Cleaning, repairs and repainting of graves will be allowed until Oct. 27 at the Manila North Cemetery (MNC) and until Oct. 26 at the Manila South Cemetery (MSC).

MNC director Daniel Tan said the cemetery would be open to visitors from Oct. 29 to Nov. 2, from 5 a.m. to 8 p.m. The MNC is one of the country’s oldest and largest cemeteries.

At the MSC, visitors will be allowed to enter from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. from Oct. 31 to Nov. 2.

Both cemeteries will prohibit vehicles from entering the premises from Oct. 29 to Nov. 2.

Visitors are reminded not to bring firearms, knives and other dangerous items. Smoking, drinking alcohol and gambling are also prohibited.

Pets are not allowed inside the cemetery. 

“These rules are for the safety, security and welfare of every visitor. We hope for your cooperation, understanding and discipline,” Tan said.

He added that security coordination with the Manila Police District is in place as an influx of visitors is expected.

Authorities said regular burials in both cemeteries would resume on Nov. 3.