13K security personnel to patrol Davao cemeteries for ‘Undas’

DAVAO CITY – The city’s Public Safety and Security Office (PSSO) will deploy 13,136 security personnel to oversee safety in Davao’s 38 cemeteries from Oct. 31 to Nov. 3 for the observance of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day.

PSSO operations officer Oscar Partuza said Friday that the security measures include informational tarpaulins at larger cemeteries, highlighting safety protocols.

While umbrellas are permitted, pointed items are restricted. Lighters for candles are allowed, though not for cigarettes.

Partuza said incident command posts and medical stations would be established, and restrictions include bans on loud music, alcohol, gambling, firearms, and drones.

Vendors near cemeteries must obtain special permits from the Business Bureau.

“We call on the Dabawenyos to abide by the guidelines of the city government and its safety protocols to ensure the safety and security of cemetery goers,” he added.

Earlier, the city government outlined restrictions for cemetery visitors on Nov. 1 and 2, including a ban on karaoke machines, loud music, jackets, bags, gambling, and alcoholic beverages. Firearms and drones are also prohibited in cemeteries.

Loiterers, vagrants, and scavengers will be denied entry, while vehicles and pedestrians must follow the “one entrance, one exit” policy. Only vendors with special permits from the Business Bureau will be allowed to sell foodstuff and other goods near cemeteries during the period. (PNA)