Over 141,000 security forces deployed for Undas holiday

The Philippine National Police (PNP) mobilized over 141,000 personnel, including police officers and government agency staff, across the country on October 30 to manage crowds and ensure public safety during the Undas holiday.

PNP Chief Police Gen. Jose Melencio C. Naratatez Jr. stated the deployment included 73,034 police personnel and 16,560 from other government agencies, assigned to cemeteries, transport terminals, major roads, churches, tourist destinations, and other strategic areas.

Naratatez ordered police units to set up police assistance desks and tighten inspections at cemeteries and memorial parks, citing past experiences with large crowds during All Saints' Day and All Souls' Day.

Last year, authorities recorded 14,014,970 cemetery visitors nationwide, highlighting the scale of public movement during the annual observance. Police were instructed to coordinate with local government units to address missing child incidents, medical emergencies, and other concerns.

The PNP also tightened inspections of items brought into cemeteries to prevent public safety threats and monitored for quarrels that could escalate into violence. Patrols were directed to monitor violations involving drinking and karaoke use inside memorial grounds.

In addition to cemetery security, police commanders were instructed to monitor residential areas where homes may be left unattended as families travel to the provinces. Naratatez emphasized securing homes and intensifying neighborhood patrols to deter burglaries.

The PNP also warned the public to remain vigilant against theft, advising people to keep valuables secure, avoid displaying large amounts of cash or jewelry, and report suspicious activities immediately.

In Metro Manila, the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) mobilized 25,000 personnel for Undas security and the upcoming ASEAN Summit 2026. NCRPO chief Police Brig. Gen. Christopher Abrahano noted that over 1,000 visitors had already been recorded at Manila North Cemetery.

The PNP placed all offices and units under full alert status from 12:01 a.m. on October 30 until 12:01 a.m. on November 3 to support security, traffic management, and public assistance operations.

Meanwhile, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) bolstered security in ports nationwide, monitoring over 338,014 passengers during the Undas holiday. From midnight of October 29 to noon of October 30, authorities recorded 172,744 outbound passengers and 166,270 inbound passengers under Oplan Biyaheng Ayos: Undas 2026.