Archival orders strict security measures for ‘Undas’

Local

CEBU CITY Mayor Nestor Archival has ordered a citywide liquor ban, tighter police checkpoints, and strict regulations on weapons, gambling, and unruly conduct from Oct. 31 to Nov. 3.

This is to ensure peace and order during the observance of All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days.

Through Executive Order No. 019, Series of 2025, Archival directed the implementation of comprehensive safety, security, and traffic measures across public and private cemeteries, columbaria, and memorial parks as tens of thousands are expected to visit their departed loved ones for Undas 2025.

“The City Government recognizes the need to implement comprehensive measures to ensure public safety, maintain order, manage traffic, and preserve the solemnity of the observance,” the mayor stated in the order signed on Oct. 29.

To maintain order and solemnity, the EO imposes a citywide liquor ban effective 12:00 a.m. of October 31 until 6:00 a.m. of November 3.

The sale, distribution, and consumption of alcoholic beverages in public areas, including streets, sidewalks, terminals, cemeteries, and other open spaces, are strictly prohibited.

Only hotels, restaurants, and licensed establishments catering to registered guests are exempt, provided no liquor is served or consumed outside authorized premises.

Violators face penalties under existing city ordinances, including fines and suspension of business permits.

The EO also prohibits the following acts within all cemeteries, columbaria, and memorial parks: bringing or consuming liquor or illegal drugs; carrying firearms, bladed weapons, or explosives; gambling, loud music, or disorderly conduct; staying overnight without authorization; littering, vandalism, or property destruction; and unauthorized vending or blocking pedestrian access.

“All violators shall be prosecuted under relevant provisions of the law,” the order states, citing coordination between the Cebu City Police Office (CCPO), barangays, and deputized city personnel.

Under the EO, the CCPO is directed to conduct intensified patrols and checkpoints at major entry and exit points of cemeteries and public areas.

Uniformed officers will strictly monitor the transport of firearms, bladed weapons, and explosives.

The use of firecrackers, pyrotechnics, and similar materials near cemetery premises is also banned.

“Gambling, intoxication, disorderly conduct, and other acts that disturb the peace or solemnity of the observance shall not be tolerated,” the EO reads.

The mayor emphasized that all checkpoints must follow the Department of the Interior and Local Government and Philippine National Police operational guidelines, ensuring respect for constitutional rights.

To address the expected surge of vehicles and pedestrians, the Cebu City Transportation Office is tasked with implementing a Traffic and Transport Management Plan that includes rerouting schemes, designated parking zones, and clear pedestrian access routes.

Public utility vehicle operators are directed to ensure adequate transport availability and compliance with safety standards.

Unauthorized roadside vending or obstructions that impede traffic and pedestrian flow are likewise prohibited.

Moreover, the City Health Department will deploy medical teams and set up first aid stations in major cemeteries, while the Department of Public Services and City Environment and Natural Resources Office are mandated to ensure regular garbage collection, waste segregation, and sanitation maintenance throughout the observance period.

Cemetery administrators are instructed to provide enough waste bins and maintain cleanliness within their premises.

The EO also discourages the use of single-use plastics and open burning of waste, in support of the city’s environmental goals.

Archival also created Task Force Undas 2025, which will coordinate all enforcement, traffic, health, and sanitation operations during the observance.

The EO takes effect immediately and will remain in force until Nov. 3, 2025, unless amended, lifted, or extended by the mayor.

“All violators shall be prosecuted under relevant provisions of the Revised Penal Code, the Local Government Code, Republic Act No. 4136, and existing Cebu City ordinances,” it stated.(TGP)