Negros oriental: The Philippine National Police (PNP) in Negros Oriental has announced a ban on alcoholic beverages inside cemeteries during the observance of All Saints' Day and All Souls' Day this weekend, an official confirmed on Friday.

According to Philippines News Agency, Lt. Stephen Polinar, spokesperson of the Negros Oriental Police Provincial Office (NOrPPO), emphasized that police across towns and cities must strictly enforce this prohibition to prevent crimes and other offenses. Col. Criscente Tiguelo, the provincial police director, has already instructed police chiefs to collaborate with local government units (LGUs) regarding local ordinances that outline cemetery prohibitions during these days.

Polinar highlighted that LGUs have different restrictions related to carrying firearms, playing loud music, and gambling within cemeteries. Furthermore, caretakers or managers of private cemeteries can impose their own regulations or prohibitions during the Undas observance.

The NOrPPO is on heightened alert from October 29 to November 3. All personnel are being deployed in towns and cities for these religious celebrations, with a reactionary force from the provincial police headquarters on standby. Police assistance desks have been set up at various locations, including cemeteries, churches, passenger terminals, the airport, sea ports, and other places where people gather to ensure public safety.

Simultaneously, the Coast Guard in Negros Oriental has deployed personnel to assist passengers and crew of vessels traveling to and from the province. Lt. Marionne Abigail Enopia, commander of Coast Guard Station Negros Oriental, stated that their personnel will conduct safety inspections and monitor port activities to ensure adherence to maritime safety standards, thereby preventing maritime incidents and ensuring smooth port operations during Undas.