Caloocan bans undue ‘merriment’ at cemeteries

To ensure a peaceful observance of All Saints’ Day in Caloocan, Mayor Enrico Echiverri has issued an executive order that strictly prohibits drinking sessions, gambling and other forms of unnecessary merrymaking at all cemeteries in the city on Nov. 1.

Through Executive Order 031-05, the mayor enjoined those visiting the cemeteries to adhere to the liquor and gambling ban, noting that All Saints’ Day is often marked with unwanted revelry.

The playing of loud music is also strictly prohibited inside the cemeteries.

With the expected heavy traffic around the cemeteries, the mayor also directed the Reformed Department of Public Safety and Traffic Management to come up with a comprehensive rerouting plan that would cover all major and alternate routes.

Echiverri also ordered the city police and the RDPSTM for the deployment and mobilization of more policemen and traffic enforcers to all cemeteries, particularly at Tala Public Cemetery, Sangandaan Public Cemetery, Bagbaguin Public Cemetery, La Loma Cemetery, Eternal Gardens, and Forest Park.

The mayor also directed the city health department to set up first-aid stations at strategic areas within cemetery premises.

As this developed, the Northern Police District would also be deploying at least 600 uniformed and civilian personnel to secure the 22 private and public cemeteries within the northern part of Metro Manila.

NPD director Chief Superintendent Raul Gonzales said "Oplan Kaluluwa" would be in effect in Camanava (Caloocan, Malabon, Navotas, Valenzuela) as early as Oct. 28.

The NPD cops would start securing bus terminals, LRT stations and other vital installations to ensure the safety of those traveling to the provinces.

Gonzales met last week with his four police chiefs, Senior Superintendent Leo Garra (Caloocan), Superintendent Moises Guevarra (Malabon), Superintendent Genesis Tolejano (Navotas) and Superintendent Billy Beltran (Valenzuela) to come up with measures for the orderly and safe observance of the All Saints’ Day and the All Souls’ Day.

Military personnel and barangay tanods would augment the local police force.