Chairman Benjamin “Benhur” Abalos Jr. of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) encouraged the public to plan visits to deceased loved ones before cemeteries close to avoid crowding that could cause the possible spread of Covid-19 .
“And ensure everyone’s health and safety,” Abalos said as he conducted an inspection of cemeteries in Metro Manila two days before it closes for the observance of “Undas” this year.
The MMDA, through MMDA Resolution 21-22, Series of 2021, directed local government units to issue ordinances or pass resolutions closing cemeteries, memorial parks and columbariums to the public from October 29 to November 2.
Abalos visited Manila North Cemetery in Manila and Garden of Life Park in Mandaluyong to verify compliance with the Inter-Agency Task Force on the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF) guidelines on the closure of cemeteries, memorial parks and columbariums to minimize the risk of transmission of Covid-19.
“All cemeteries in the National Capital Region are well prepared and the influx of people has spread out as they visit their loved ones who died so soon,” Abalos said.
The authorities have set up police assistance offices and deployed mobile teams around the cemeteries to ensure that the 30% capacity limit is respected.
Abalos also said the MMDA has deployed additional personnel, in coordination with local government units and the police, to assist in cemeteries and manage traffic in its vicinity.
He also expressed his gratitude to the mayors of Metro Manila for their initiatives to keep cemeteries in their jurisdiction in line with IATF guidelines.
“While it is important to adhere to the guidelines established by the IATF and to observe the minimum sanitary protocols, it is also important to practice self-discipline to ensure that we will have an Undas safe from the Covid-19 virus. 19,” he said. added.
