Over 2,600 cops to be deployed for ‘Undas’

MANILA, Philippines - More than 2,600 policemen and 3,197 “force multipliers” will be deployed to secure cemeteries in Metro Manila during the observance of All Saints’ Day tomorrow.

President Aquino yesterday met with mayors in the metropolis to discuss security preparations and other concerns.

 Aquino will inspect transport hubs today, Malacañang officials said.

Police Public Assistance Desks (PADs) will be set up at the entrances of cemeteries.  “Force multipliers” such as barangay officials and civilian groups will assist them, especially in overseeing the flow of traffic, said Chief Superintendent Dennis Peña, deputy director for operations of the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO).

Peña urged the public not to bring liquor, bladed weapons, loud speakers and playing cards inside the cemeteries as they would be confiscated by policemen manning PADs.

He said carrying of firearms is also a no-no as the gun ban imposed by the Commission on Elections is still in effect until Nov. 12.

There are 84 cemeteries and 10 columbariums in the metropolis.

The Taguig City government yesterday said it is prepared to secure the eight cemeteries in the city.

For his part, Parañaque Mayor Pablo Olivarez said roads leading to cemeteries would be closed to traffic tomorrow. – With Aurea Calica, Mike Frialde, Perseus Echeminada