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Police map out plans for 'Pyesta Minatay'
Mayor Jerry P. Treñas has ordered all the precinct commanders of the Iloilo City Police Office to ensure the safety of the people going to cemeteries this coming November 1 and 2.
Treñas recently met with the six precinct commanders to plan out preparations for the coming Pyesta Minatay.
The mayor instructed the police to strictly impose a “no gambling and no drinking” policy in both private and public cemeteries in the city. “All Soul's Day is a day to remember our departed loved ones and not a feast day for the living,” he said.
He also told the police to clear the entrance and exit areas of cemeteries of vendors. The move is also part of the government's anti-terrorism measures.
Vendors usually mushroom in the gates of the cemeteries to sell candles, bottled water, candies and cigarettes.
Treñas said terrorists might pose as vendors to conceal the explosives they carry. Besides, he said, “this is to ensure mobility should emergency arise.”
Meanwhile, Insp. Frankie Lugo, precinct commander of Molo PNP said they would conduct body searches on people going to cemeteries to prevent people from bringing in bladed weapons, liquor, firearms, explosives and other banned items inside the cemetery.
Molo is one of the districts with large cemeteries. It is also where the late Senator Rodolfo Ganzon was laid to rest. His family and a number of supporters are expected to troop to the cemetery to offer flowers and light candles. Ganzon died of a lingering illness on October 29, 2003.
Police will also make rounds to ensure that no drinking session is held inside the cemetery. “People will always find ways to sneak in liquors inside the cemetery. They could transfer the liquor from the bottle to a container,” Lugo observed.
Barangay tanods would also augment to the police force. Among their tasks is to help ease traffic congestion in areas near the cemeteries, said Lugo.
Lugo also appealed to the residents to exercise safety measures when they leave their homes to go to the cemetery. “All doors and windows should be locked to prevent break ins,” he said.
People should not also leave lighted candles unattended in their houses. It may catch fire. Traditionally, there are people who light candles in their houses aside from the cemetery to welcome the souls of their loved ones, ended Lugo.