President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has ordered all government agencies to ensure full preparedness for the upcoming Undas observance, emphasizing the need to safeguard travelers and maintain smooth operations across the country during the long weekend.
In a press briefing held in Gyeongju, South Korea on Friday, Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Claire Castro said the President has instructed concerned agencies to prioritize the safety, security, and welfare of Filipinos heading to their hometowns for All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day on Saturday and Sunday.
“Dapat lagi tayong handa. Nag-utos na po siya sa mga concerned government agencies at kinakailangan po na paghandaan ang paparating na Undas,” Castro said.
According to Castro, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has mobilized its field offices to provide assistance and distribute relief items such as ready-to-eat food packs, family packs, and other essentials in case travelers encounter delays or emergencies.
She also reported that the Department of Health (DOH) has set up emergency tents along the South Luzon Expressway (SLEx) to assist motorists and passengers, anticipating a surge in travel activity.
Meanwhile, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) continues to closely monitor commodity prices, particularly for Undas-related goods, to prevent overpricing and ensure affordability for consumers.
To maintain peace and order, the Philippine National Police (PNP) will deploy 31,200 personnel for intensified patrols in residential areas, transport terminals, and business establishments. They will be reinforced by 11,700 uniformed personnel from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), and Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), along with 29,900 force multipliers, including barangay tanods, ranger groups, and NGO volunteers.
Despite being in South Korea for the 32nd Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Leaders’ Meeting, Castro said Marcos continues to closely monitor the country’s preparations.
“Kung tutuusin po, taun-taon na nagaganap ang Undas kaya po handang-handa po ang gobyerno para diyan,” she added.
With coordinated efforts from all sectors, the Palace assured the public of a safe, orderly, and peaceful Undas 2025.