NegOcc, Bacolod cops on full alert for ‘Undas’ weekend

BACOLOD City – Police personnel in Negros Occidental and this capital city are on full alert during the long weekend, from October 30 to November 2, to ensure the peaceful observance of “Undas” among the Negrenses.

For four days starting Saturday, all cemeteries, memorial parks, and columbaria in all 31 cities and municipalities in Negros Occidental as well as in Bacolod City have been closed to the public as a measure to curb the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19).

November 1 and 2 are observed as the All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day, respectively.

Lt. Abegael Donasco, the spokesperson of the Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office (NOCPPO), told the Philippine News Agency (PNA) the police are monitoring public and private cemeteries to ensure that nobody will be allowed to enter these places as ordered by Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson.

“We have been disseminating information about this. All those who will be found entering the cemeteries will be reprimanded. If there is resistance, we will apprehend them,” she added.

Since October 25, the NOCPPO has deployed personnel in cemeteries and memorial parks in the province to secure visitors and ensure compliance with health and safety protocols.

The Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO) has deployed personnel in various public and private cemeteries for a safe observance of the “Undas” holidays amid the Covid-19 pandemic.

Col. Thomas Joseph Martir, acting police city director, directed the commanders of all 10 police stations to strictly implement the order of Mayor Evelio Leonardia, enforcing health and safety protocols during the observance of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day.

He added they have established public assistance desks at the entrance and premises of cemeteries and memorial parks since early this week. (PNA)