Manila: The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) announced that all of its units will be placed under heightened alert, known as Code Blue, from October 28 to 29, and full alert, or Code Red, from October 30 to November 2. This is part of the observance for this year’s All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day, commonly known as Undas.
According to Philippines News Agency, Senior Superintendent Bonifacio Carta, the director of BFP Public Information Service, stated that approximately 27,500 firefighters will be deployed to ensure immediate emergency response and bolster fire prevention efforts at cemeteries, transport terminals, and other public areas under the initiative Oplan Kaluluwa (Soul). Fire trucks and ambulances will be stationed at strategic locations across the country in coordination with local government officials.
At the same Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) media forum, Philippine National Police (PNP) spokesperson Brigadier General Randulf Tua±o revealed that 50,253 police personnel will be stationed nationwide. This figure more than doubles last year’s deployment, which consisted of around 21,000 officers. A significant number of these personnel, 35,661 to be precise, will be posted at cemeteries and columbaria, while others will focus on assisting motorists and travelers at various transportation hubs.
The PNP will activate 5,015 Police Assistance Desks (PADS) situated in cemeteries, transport terminals, and major thoroughfares as part of the ‘Ligtas Undas 2025’ security plan. Acting PNP chief Lieutenant General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. announced that the PNP will be on heightened alert status from October 29 to November 3, bolstering its personnel by 25% to reinforce security measures in public spaces.
Security will be particularly intense in five major cemeteries in Metro Manila, including the Manila North Cemetery and Loyola Memorial Park in Marikina. Personnel will be equipped with body-worn cameras for real-time communication with the PNP Command Center, while Unified 911 hotlines will remain active for quick assistance.
The Department of Transportation confirmed that all transportation systems have been inspected and are ready to handle the anticipated surge in passengers. Additionally, the DILG reported that 45,712 force multipliers, consisting of village watchmen and civic organizations, will assist the PNP in maintaining order and safety.
A memorandum issued by the DILG on October 24 reminded local officials to take proactive steps to ensure that public areas remain safe and orderly throughout the Undas period.
