Army launches Libingan ng mga Bayani task force

MANILA, Philippines — The Army will activate on Saturday a Task Force "Pagmamahal" to assist visitors of the Libingan ng mga Bayani (heroes' cemetery) in Fort Bonifacio on November 1 and 2.

Army spokesman Col. Benjamin Hao said the task force would consist of four groups formed to ensure the convenience and safety of visitors.

The Service Support Task Group will handle the overall physical preparation of the Libingan and will help families locate the grave of their loved ones. The group will also provide transportation, maintenance and medical services to those who need them.

The Vigil Task Group will perform vigil service at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers while the Security Task Group will ensure the safety of visitors.

The Traffic Control Task Group, meanwhile, will ensure orderliness and smooth flow of traffic.

"Parking areas will be designated and roving patrols and traffic marshals will be deployed to ensure smooth traffic flow and direct visitors to authorized parking areas," Hao said.  

Personnel from the Philippine National Police and the Metro Manila Development Authority will also help ensure the peaceful observation of All Saints Day and All Souls Day.

The Libingan ng mga Bayani serves as the final resting place of deceased presidents, dignitaries, national artists, scientists, boy scouts, war veterans, and military chiefs.

The 142-hectare cemetery was established in May 1947 as the Republic Memorial Cemetery and was renamed Libingan ng mga Bayani on Oct. 27, 1954.

A total of 46,120 persons are interred in the cemetery, which is being maintained by the rave Services Unit of the Army Support Command.