World · Philippines Bureau
Cagayan de Oro urges early cemetery visits during Undas season
Authorities in Cagayan de Oro City have issued guidelines for this year's Undas observance, recommending visitors arrive early to avoid peak heat and congestion at local cemeteries. New restrictions ban overnight stays, alcohol, and smoking at burial grounds.
LSN Philippines ·
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — City authorities have rolled out a set of protocols ahead of the annual Undas or Kalag-Kalag season, when tens of thousands of residents are expected to visit cemeteries to pay respects to deceased loved ones. Officials have urged the public to plan cemetery visits during early morning hours to escape the oppressive midday heat that typically affects the region during the season.
The guidelines, implemented across both public and private cemeteries in the city, prohibit overnight stays, the consumption of alcoholic beverages, and smoking within cemetery grounds. These measures aim to maintain order and safety as foot traffic intensifies during the peak visitation period.
Local authorities have advised residents to prepare adequately for their visits, noting that the combination of large crowds and hot weather in recent years has posed challenges to public health and cemetery management. By staggering visits and encouraging attendance during cooler morning hours, officials hope to alleviate congestion and reduce heat-related incidents.
The city's cemetery management offices have been coordinated to enforce these regulations consistently throughout the Undas period. Residents planning to visit are encouraged to check with their respective barangay or cemetery administrators for specific operating hours and additional guidelines.