MMDA deploys cleanup teams to cemeteries

MANILA, Philippines - Starting today, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) will deploy cleanup teams to public cemeteries in the metropolis in preparation for All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day.

MMDA Chairman Francis Tolentino said the cleanup will be carried out in coordination with local government units.

Aside from collecting garbage and repainting public cemeteries in Metro Manila, Tolentino said the MMDA personnel will clear the sidewalks and remove obstructions on the streets leading to the cemeteries.

MMDA cleanup teams will be fielded today at the Makati South Cemetery, San Felipe Roman Catholic Cemetery in Mandaluyong, Manila North Cemetery, La Loma Cemetery in Caloocan City, and Bagbag and Sangandaan cemeteries in Quezon City.

Tolentino earlier said some 2,000 traffic enforcers would be deployed for “Oplan Kaluluwa 2014” from Oct. 27 to Nov. 2.

The MMDA has requested the Department of Public Works and Highways to suspend road works and re-blocking projects during the observance of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day to ease traffic congestion.

The agency has allowed provincial buses to pass EDSA in anticipation of the influx of travelers.

Tolentino said provincial buses are allowed to pass through the tunnels along EDSA-Shaw Boulevard, P. Tuazon and Aurora Boulevard starting tomorrow, except Sundays. 

Meanwhile, private vehicles will not be allowed to enter the Manila North Cemetery starting Thursday.

The Manila Police District and Manila Traffic and Parking Bureau will deploy their respective personnel in the vicinity of the cemetery to ensure the safety of the public.

Visitors are banned from bringing bladed weapons, playing cards and sound systems inside the cemetery.

A website has been activated so the people can easily locate the tombs of their loved ones.