Manila:The Manila Cathedral has commenced the offering of Masses and lighting of candles for the dearly departed at the Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, a tradition that will continue until November 7.

According to Philippines News Agency, from October 18 to November 7, the Blessed Souls Chapel inside the Manila Cathedral will be accessible to the public for those who wish to offer Mass intentions and light votive candles for the souls of the faithful departed. The cathedral will be open daily from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.

In conjunction with these events, the City of Manila has announced temporary road closures near the Manila North Cemetery in preparation for the commemoration of All Souls' Day on November 1 and All Saints Day on November 2. The Manila Public Information Office stated that the road closures will commence at 7 p.m. on October 30 and last until 7 p.m. on November 3. Affected areas include stretches of Blumentritt Street, Dimasalang Street, Maceda Street, and parts of the northbound lane of Dimasalang Bridge, among others.

To manage traffic, a rerouting plan has been issued. Vehicles from Dimasalang Road intending to use Blumentritt Road should turn right on Simon Street, and those from Quezon City using A. Bonifacio Avenue should turn left on Labo Street. Additional rerouting instructions are provided for other streets in the vicinity. Designated parking areas for cemetery visitors include P. Guevarra Street, Felix Huertas Street, and Oroquieta Street, all stretching from Blumentritt Road to Aurora Boulevard. Motorists are encouraged to plan their trips accordingly to avoid inconvenience.