EcoWaste Coalition calls for trash-free Undas

A week before November 1, authorities are preparing for the influx of visitors at cemeteries and memorial parks.

According to a Tuesday report by Mark Salazar on”24 Oras,” to maintain cleanliness inside the Manila North Cemetery, authorities said that vendors would be allowed inside the cemetery only until October 31.

The EcoWaste Coalition also initiated a “Basura mo, bitbit mo” campaign to promote a trash-free Undas.

“Patuloy ang pagpapaalala natin sa publiko na magdala ng mga lalagyan. Kung ano yung mga dinala po ninyo lalo na yung mga pinagkainan, yung mga kalat, ilabas natin. Huwag po nating iniiwan sa loob ng sementeryo,” said EcoWaste Coalition representative Sol Dela cruz.

Meanwhile, the Philippine National Police (PNP) was strictly monitoring the Manila North Cemetery even as they also reminded the public to follow health protocols.

“Bawal po magdala ng mga bladed materials, bawal din po magdala ng alak, gamit pang-sugal at pati na rin mga loud speakers. Para naman ma-maintain natin ang solemnity sa pag-alala sa ating mga mahal sa buhay na namayapa na. As to the health protocols, kaakibat natin diyan ang ating mga kasama sa DOH para iimplement ang minimun health standard,” said National Capital Region Police Office Spokesperson Police Luitenant Colonel Dexter Versola.

Despite Tuesday's inclement weather, relatives visited their deceased kin and cleaned their graves. They came a week early to avoid the expected crowds during Undas.

Meanwhile, as the demand for flowers was expected to increase during Undas, Benguet flower farmers were confident that they had an adequate supply to meet the needs of customers.

“As of now stable pa naman yung presyo natin… pero asahan po natin ano ho, ang pagtaas ng presyo ng mga bulaklak habang paparating na po itong Undas natin,” said La Trinidad, Benguet Councilor Belmar Elis. — Sherylin Untalan