No threats monitored for Undas 2023 so far —PNP

The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Wednesday said it has not received any threats for the observance of All Saints' Day, or Undas, but will continue to monitor possible dangers.

“So far, wala tayong natatanggap. Tuloy-tuloy ang monitoring natin (So far we have not received any threats. Our monitoring will continue),” PNP chief Police General Benjamin Acorda Jr. told reporters in an ambush interview.

According to Acorda, more than 37,000 police personnel have been deployed across the country to secure the observance of Undas.

Acorda inspected Manila North Cemetery around 9 a.m. on Wednesday to check its security preparations. He noted that few deadly weapons were confiscated from visitors upon their entrance to the cemetery.

He also said no reports of disorder have been monitored so far in cemeteries nationwide.

In a separate statement, the PNP said it has implemented comprehensive plans to manage crowd control, traffic flow, and public safety during the observance of Undas.

Police officers, together with other law enforcement agencies and force multipliers, were deployed to key locations including 3,808 memorial parks, public cemeteries, and columbaria.

The public were advised to remain vigilant in securing their homes when away and to exercise caution when in crowded areas.

If there are any suspicious activities or individuals, the PNP encouraged the public to report them to the nearest police officers or through the PNP hotlines.

Motorists were also reminded to adhere to traffic rules and cooperate with authorities to maintain smooth flow of traffic.

“We want everyone to be able to observe this important tradition without any concerns about their well-being. Our officers are fully prepared to ensure a peaceful environment for everyone,” Acorda said.

“The PNP would like to remind the public that safety is a shared responsibility. By working together, we can guarantee a peaceful and secure Undas observance for everyone,” he added.

PNP spokesperson Police Colonel Jean Fajardo on Tuesday cautioned the public against common crimes during Undas.

“Normally po kapag ganitong malaki iyong volume ng mga tao ay theft, salisi, at physical injury,” she said at a news conference when asked about the common crimes during All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days.

(Normally, when there is a huge volume of people like during this occasion, the common crimes are theft, salisi, and physical injury.)  —KBK, GMA Integrated News