As dawn broke over Manila on Saturday, visitors streamed into Manila North Cemetery, marking the start of the annual Undás pilgrimage. According to the Sta. Cruz Police Station, the crowd had swelled to approximately 345,000 by 10 a.m. on November 1.
The period between 9 a.m. and 10 a.m. saw the largest surge, with about 167,350 people recorded entering the grounds.
Officials from the Manila Police District (MPD) reported no major incidents during the early hours of the holiday. Spokesperson Maj. Philip Ines expressed relief, noting the absence of significant disturbances and attributing the peaceful start to the security framework in place.
Ines reminded visitors to comply with cemetery rules, cautioning against bringing sharp objects, firearms, large sound systems, flammable materials, alcoholic beverages—and even pets such as cats and dogs. He also urged guardians who bring children to use the wrist‐band tag service near the cemetery entrance to help prevent separation.
While free e-trike rides are no longer offered this year, wheelchairs remain available inside the cemetery for those needing assistance.
From early morning, tombs were cleaned, candles lit, and offerings placed by families who travelled from across Metro Manila and beyond, as part of the country’s time-honoured ritual of remembering departed loved ones.
The large turnout underscores the enduring importance of this tradition for many Filipinos, and the logistical challenge of managing crowds at one of the city’s biggest burial grounds.
We will provide further updates as the day progresses, including how numbers evolve after noon and how the evening vigil unfolds.