Approximately 97,000 people visited Manila North Cemetery between October 24 and 26, 2026, as early arrivals began filling the grounds. Around 5,900 people had already streamed into the Manila North Cemetery by 1 p.m. Friday, October 30, despite it being a work day. This early surge is a precursor to a massive weekend influx, with the city government bracing for as many as two million visitors throughout Undas.
Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso stated on Friday that the local government will evaluate whether to extend the cemetery’s current operating hours of 5 a.m. to 8 p.m. Domagoso noted that the city may need to adjust to accommodate a growing population and an increasing number of people buried at the site. If it needs to be extended, then so be it. But we’ll play it by ear,
Domagoso said. He added that the government will adjust if necessary to accommodate as many people as possible.
Manila North Cemetery Sets Visiting Hours and Bans
From October 29 to November 2, the Manila North Cemetery is open from 5 a.m. until 8 p.m. To facilitate pedestrian movement, all vehicles and vendors are prohibited inside the grounds during this period. Mayor Domagoso indicated that designated vehicles will be available at the gate to transport visitors to gravesites, telling residents, do not worry, my mothers and fathers, my grandfathers and grandmothers
, regarding the transport.
Authorities have banned several items and activities to maintain order and safety, including:
- Guns, sharp objects (such as knives, machetes, and spatulas), and flammable materials like alcohol and thinners.
- Alcoholic drinks, pets, and gambling materials, specifically playing cards and mahjong.
- Sound systems, speakers, guitars, and karaokes.
- The wearing of helmets and balaclavas, which is prohibited under a city ordinance.
Security Personnel and CCTV Cameras Monitor Cemetery Grounds
Manila North Cemetery Director Daniel Tan announced the deployment of 125 operational CCTV cameras and approximately 200 security personnel, including members of the Manila Police District. Tan said the cameras were placed in various areas to monitor activities and ensure public safety. These forces will be augmented by the Bureau of Fire Protection and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority, as well as the City Security Force and other national government agencies. Tan noted that police deployment will reach the thousands.
To prepare for the crowd, the Manila Police District’s Sta. Cruz Police Station conducted Oplan Galugad operations over the weekend, searching dimly lit areas and alleys for criminals or suspicious individuals.
Maintenance deadlines were strictly set ahead of the holiday. October 27 served as the final day for painting, cleaning, and repairing tombs, while the bringing of paint and thinners was prohibited starting October 28. Tan stated these restrictions allow personnel to conduct final cleaning and collect garbage. Burials at the cemetery were suspended starting October 29, with regular services scheduled to resume on November 3.
Visitor Volume Trends
The surge of visitors began well before the main observance. Data shows that approximately 97,000 people visited the cemetery between October 24 and 26. Earlier counts recorded 17,000 visitors on Saturday, 67,000 on Sunday, and 20,000 on Monday. The cemetery also expected roughly 50,000 people on Tuesday, October 27.
