Filipinos honour deceased despite sweltering heat at Manila cemeteries

MANILA — Sweltering temperatures failed to deter Filipinos from observing All Saints' Day traditions, as crowds descended on Manila North and South Cemeteries on Sunday to visit the graves of deceased family members.

Throughout the day, visitors employed multiple methods to shield themselves from the intense heat. Many sought refuge under the shade of trees scattered across the cemetery grounds, while others utilised umbrellas, hand-held fans, and towels draped over their heads to provide temporary relief from the scorching conditions.

The annual pilgrimage, deeply rooted in Filipino cultural and religious practices, draws tens of thousands of devotees each year despite weather challenges. Families typically spend hours at the cemeteries maintaining grave sites, leaving flowers and offerings, and spending time in quiet reflection.

Cemetery management typically prepares for the surge in visitors during the All Saints' Day period, though the combination of holiday crowds and extreme weather poses ongoing challenges for both visitors and cemetery operations. Local authorities generally increase water distribution points and medical personnel presence during the observance.