Palace assures peaceful observance of All Saints', All Souls' Day

MALACANANG said Saturday that concerned government agencies were already alerted and have started doing necessary preparations to ensure peaceful and orderly observance of All Saints' Day and All Souls' Day.

Deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said the Philippine National Police (PNP) has already beefed up police visibility in cemeteries, churches and other public places to ensure the safety of the public.

"Malacanang's directive primarily is to keep the peace. Of course, police visibility is always a factor," Valte said over government-run Radyo ng Bayan.

A contingency force will be deployed to ensure the safety of passengers and adequacy of transportation alternatives amid an expected heavy influx of travelers on All Saints' Day.

Valte reiterated the warning to the public to refrain from bringing deadly weapons in cemeteries.

"People know the things that are prohibited in cemeteries like sharp objects and liquors. The police will be there to ensure peace and order during the visit of our countrymen to their loved ones who have passed away," she added. 

Valte said authorities are also alerted against possible terror threat and security measures are already in place to avert any untoward incident.
 
President Benigno Aquino III has declared November 1 (All Saints' Day), which falls on a Thursday, and November 2 (All Souls' Day), a Friday, as special non-working holidays by virtue of Proclamation 295.
 
Valte earlier said that October 31 will not be declared aa holiday. (Jill Beltran/Sunnex)