ICPO bans alcohol, drones, overnight stays during Undas

ILOILO CITY — Weeks ahead of the observance of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day on Nov. 1 and 2, respectively, the Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO) announced guidelines for people visiting their departed loved ones.

Col. Wilbert Parilla, Iloilo City police chief, said the ICPO will strictly enforce Executive Order No. 103, Series of 2026, issued by Mayor Raisa Treñas-Chu.

The executive order provides guidelines for the observance of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day, outlines the responsibilities of city government offices, and regulates vending activities during the period.

The order will be in effect from 12:01 a.m. Oct. 29 until 11:59 p.m. Nov. 3, 2026.

Under EO 103, prohibited items and activities include alcoholic beverages; poisonous or highly combustible materials; unregistered drones without the required security clearance; unlicensed firearms and firearms without the required Permit to Carry Firearms Outside of Residence; medium- or large-sized speakers, videoke machines and other devices that produce excessive noise; gambling and related paraphernalia; overnight stays in cemeteries; and littering.

The ICPO will also ensure strict enforcement of the city’s No Smoking Ordinance in accordance with applicable regulations.

Parilla said police have strengthened security preparations as they expect an influx of thousands of cemetery visitors and travelers.

He added that the ICPO will increase police presence in and around cemeteries, churches and other public areas.

Security preparations will cover 19 cemeteries across Iloilo City, comprising 10 public and nine private cemeteries, as well as three wharves and seven transport terminals.

Measures include increased police visibility, traffic management and the implementation of public safety protocols in cemeteries, memorial parks, transport terminals and other key public areas.

The ICPO will also deploy traffic personnel to manage vehicle flow and prevent congestion near cemeteries and other gathering points.

Parilla said Police Assistance Desks will be established at strategic locations to assist visitors and respond to emergencies.

Field commanders were also tasked with coordinating with medical teams and emergency responders to provide immediate assistance when necessary.

Meanwhile, Parilla urged the public to act responsibly and observe applicable laws, local ordinances and prescribed guidelines to maintain peace and order.

He noted that public cooperation is essential to ensuring a peaceful and orderly observance.

“As we anticipate thousands of visitors in cemeteries, it is essential that we work together to ensure a peaceful and orderly observance. We have coordinated with local government units, barangay officials, and various stakeholders to enforce safety measures and promptly address any concerns,” Parilla said.

He also asked the public to observe basic safety precautions, including avoiding carrying large amounts of cash or displaying valuables, remaining vigilant against theft, and keeping children within sight at all times.

The ICPO likewise reminded residents to secure their homes before leaving to visit cemeteries.

The public is encouraged to lock doors and windows, check electrical appliances, and ask trusted individuals to help monitor their properties when necessary.

The public is also urged to report suspicious activities immediately to the nearest police station, dial 911, or contact the ICPO through its hotlines at 0908-377-0194 and (033) 335-0299.