(Photo courtesy of PCO)
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Friday assured Filipinos that government agencies are fully mobilized to ensure safe, orderly, and convenient travel during the observance of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day on November 1 and 2.
In a video message, Marcos outlined the government’s preparations for the expected surge in passengers and motorists traveling to their home provinces and visiting cemeteries to honor departed loved ones.
“Ngayong darating na Undas, marami sa ating mga kababayan ang uuwi sa kani-kanilang probinsya o dadalaw sa mga sementeryo upang alalahanin at ipagdasal ang kanilang mga mahal sa buhay,” the President said.
“Kaya nais nating tiyakin na magiging ligtas, maayos at maginhawa ang kanilang pagbiyahe at pagdalaw,” he added.
Marcos said the Department of Transportation (DOTr), together with other concerned agencies, has intensified inspections of airports, seaports, and bus terminals to ensure passenger safety and the readiness of transportation facilities.
Major highways and roads have also undergone inspections and repairs, with urgent roadworks targeted for completion by October 29 to minimize traffic disruptions during the holiday rush.
To accommodate the anticipated increase in travelers, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has issued more than 1,000 special permits allowing additional buses to operate during the Undas period.
The Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) will likewise implement relaxed scheduling arrangements and issue special permits from October 29 to November 3, allowing passenger vessels to operate additional trips on selected routes when necessary.
For international passengers, Marcos said immigration personnel will ensure adequate staffing at airport counters from October 30 to November 3 to prevent long queues and processing delays.
The government will also maximize electronic gates and other digital systems to expedite immigration procedures and improve passenger movement.
Round-the-clock assistance desks will be established at major transportation terminals to provide travelers with information and immediate assistance.
In Metro Manila, more than 2,000 personnel from the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) will be deployed to manage traffic, particularly along roads leading to cemeteries and other areas expected to attract large crowds.
Marcos said concerned agencies are also inspecting cemeteries, churches, and other public places to ensure their readiness for the influx of visitors.
“Ang kaayusan sa mga pampublikong lugar na dadayuhin ng ating mga kababayan. Nagsasagawa ng inspeksyon ang iba’t ibang ahensya upang tiyakin na handa at ligtas ang mga sementeryo, simbahan at iba pang mataong lugar,” he said.
Personnel from the Philippine National Police (PNP) will be stationed at cemeteries and columbaria to maintain peace and order, while the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) will remain on standby for possible fire incidents and other emergencies.
Hospitals and emergency medical response teams will also be placed on heightened alert, with national agencies coordinating closely with local government units to ensure immediate assistance when needed.
The President urged the public to prepare their travel plans in advance, monitor traffic advisories, and stay informed about road closures and alternative routes.
“Planuhin ang inyong biyahe at alamin ang mga abiso tungkol sa trapiko at pagbabago ng ruta. Kung gagamit ng pampublikong transportasyon, agahan ang pagpunta sa terminal. Kung maaari, bumili na ng ticket nang maaga,” Marcos advised.
He also encouraged passengers to use online ticketing services whenever available to avoid long lines at transportation terminals.
“Para sa mga biyaheng may online ticketing, hinihikayat natin kayong gamitin ito upang makaiwas sa mahahabang pila sa mga terminal,” he said.
Marcos reminded cemetery visitors to observe fire safety precautions, particularly when bringing and lighting candles, and to cooperate with authorities enforcing security measures.
For emergencies, the public may contact the national emergency hotline 911 or monitor the official social media pages of the DOTr, Department of Public Works and Highways, MMDA, PNP, Department of Health, and BFP for advisories.
The President emphasized that Undas should remain a meaningful occasion for families to remember and honor their departed loved ones without unnecessary safety concerns or travel difficulties.
“Ang Undas ay panahon ng paggunita at pag-alala sa ating mga mahal sa buhay. Nawa’y maging payapa at makabuluhan ang pagdalaw ng bawat pamilyang Pilipino,” Marcos said.
