The city government has released its guidelines for the 2025 Undas observance, outlining measures to maintain peace, cleanliness and order in all public and private cemeteries from Oct. 30 to Nov. 2.

Under the rules approved by the “Oplan Kaluluwa 2025” committee, families are urged to clean and repaint tombs only until Oct. 29, as cleaning materials, paint and similar tools will be banned inside cemeteries starting Oct. 30.

Gaudencio Gonzales, supervising administrative officer at the City Administrator’s Office, said the early clean-up schedule helps reduce congestion and gives time for the City Environment and Parks Management Office (CEPMO) to collect and dispose of waste properly before the visitation period.

To ensure public safety, the city will prohibit deadly weapons, loudspeakers, alcoholic drinks, gambling paraphernalia and smoking inside cemetery premises.

Gonzales added that selling inside or around public cemeteries is not allowed, and parking will be restricted to a “drop-and-go” scheme for visitors bringing vehicles.

For vendors, the local government has designated Perfecto Street as the only permitted retail area for flowers and candles from Oct. 27 to Nov. 2, with 75 slots available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Meanwhile, wholesale flower deliveries will be allowed only at the Old Auditorium Area in Burnham Park, but retail selling remains prohibited. (PNA)