Tens of thousands of visitors flocked to Manila’s major public cemeteries on Sunday morning to pay respects to their departed loved ones for Undas 2026.
According to the Manila Police District (MPD), Manila North Cemetery recorded approximately 44,000 visitors as of 8 a.m., while Manila South Cemetery logged around 22,000 visitors by 10 a.m. This early morning turnout arrived despite expectations that larger crowds would build up later in the day, as citizens took advantage of the Sunday holiday.
The heavy observances follow a busy opening day on Saturday, October 31, when the two public cemeteries drew a combined total of 111,000 visitors.
Amid the high volume of visitors, sanitation efforts have been active. The Manila Public Information Office (MPIO) reported that approximately 97 metric tons of garbage had been cleared from the cemetery grounds as of 8 a.m. on Sunday, November 1.
Cleanup crews and sanitation workers focused on sweeping the stretch from Main Street up to M. Roxas Circle.
To maintain safety and handle potential incidents, the Manila City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Department (MCDRRMD) held an Operational Period Briefing to align first responders and volunteers.
Operating under the directive of Manila City Mayor Isko Moreno Domagoso, Incident Commander Rommel Allada led the briefing alongside the command and general staff of the Incident Management Team.
During the session, personnel reviewed their specific roles, objectives, and responsibilities to guarantee coordinated operations and swift emergency responses throughout the observance.
City authorities assured the public that all deployed responders and volunteers remain on high alert to secure visitors and maintain order across the grounds.