Manila to close cemeteries again during Undas

The Manila government on Wednesday ordered the temporary closure of public and private cemeteries and columbaries in the city from October 29 to November 3 this year.

In statement, the Manila Public Information Office said that Mayor Isko Moreno signed Executive Order No. 33, prohibiting visitors to Manila North Cemetery, Manila South Cemetery, and Manila Muslim Cemetery amid Undas due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

During this period, only interment and cremation services for non-COVID-19 cases will be allowed as long as minimum public health standards are observed.

"The Directors of the Manila Cemeteries, with the assistance of the Manila Police District, the Manila Health Department, the Manila Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, and the Department of Public Services are directed to ensure compliance and implementation of this Order," read the order.

Cemeteries that violate the EO will be subject to revocation of business and Mayor's permits, the order also read.

Last year, the city government and the rest of the National Capital Region shut down cemeteries during the period in a bid to prevent the observance of Undas becoming super spreader events. — Consuelo Marquez/BM, GMA News