MANILA— More than 40.7 million people visited cemeteries, memorial parks, and columbaria nationwide from October 30 to November 2 as the Philippine National Police (PNP) continued its security operations for the observance of All Souls’ Day.

In its nationwide monitoring report, the PNP recorded 40,740,246 visitors across 5,311 burial sites as of 6 a.m. Monday, November 2. Of the total, 1,695,440 visits were recorded during the November 2 monitoring period.

Police personnel remained deployed in cemeteries and other major convergence areas to manage crowds, assist visitors, maintain peace and order, and respond to emergencies.

The PNP also reported confiscating 6,499 prohibited items from cemetery premises nationwide as part of its security measures.

These included 879 pointed or bladed weapons, 62 alcoholic drinks, 2,817 lighters, 1,739 cigarette and vape products, 180 cooking materials, and 397 flammable substances, along with other restricted items.

Under the leadership of PNP chief Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., the nationwide deployment was supported by other government agencies and community force multipliers.

Police assistance desks and emergency response teams were also stationed in key areas to provide help, particularly to children, senior citizens, and visitors requiring immediate assistance.

Nartatez said police operations during the observance were intended not only to maintain security but also to ensure that families could safely visit their departed loved ones.

“Alam naming mahalaga ang araw na ito sa bawat pamilyang Pilipino. Kaya habang inaalala ninyo ang inyong mga mahal sa buhay, narito ang inyong kapulisan upang tumulong at tiyaking ligtas ang inyong pagdalaw. Hindi lamang kami nakabantay sa seguridad; handa rin kaming umalalay sa sinumang nangangailangan,” Nartatez said.

He reminded the public to remain vigilant, secure their belongings, keep children within sight, and observe cemetery regulations. Visitors were also advised to approach the nearest police assistance desk or personnel for emergencies or other concerns.

The PNP said its operations were being carried out under its Focused Agenda, particularly the Enhanced Managing Police Operations (EMPO), through strategic deployment, monitoring, and coordination with local government units and partner agencies.

The initiative also supports President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to ensure public safety and accessible government services during the observance.

The police force said it would maintain its presence and readiness to assist the public throughout the continuing Undas activities.