Quezon imposes 4-day liquor ban in cemeteries for ‘Undas’

LUCENA CITY — The Quezon provincial government imposed a four-day liquor ban in all public and private cemeteries across the province for a safe, peaceful and solemn observance of ‘Undas’ (All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day).

According to Executive Order (EO) No. DHT-30, “bringing, drinking, distributing and selling liquor and other alcoholic beverages inside or within the compound of private and public cemeteries, memorial parks, columbaria and other similar places” are prohibited.

The directive was signed by Vice Gov. Anacleto Alcala III, who is serving as acting governor, and issued on Thursday, Oct. 29.

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The ban took effect at midnight on Oct. 30 (Friday) and will remain in force until 11:59 p.m. on Nov. 2 (Monday).

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During Undas, the traditional Filipino observance of All Saints’ Day on Nov. 1 and All Souls’ Day on Nov. 2, families flock to cemeteries to clean graves, light candles, offer flowers, and pray for their departed loved ones.

“The consumption, sale, distribution, and bringing of alcoholic beverages into cemetery premises may contribute to public disturbances, disorderly conduct, accidents, sanitation concerns, and other incidents that may compromise the safety and welfare of cemetery visitors,” the EO said.

The prohibition aims to protect public welfare and ensure an orderly, safe and respectful observance of Undas, the EO stated.

Law enforcement agencies and other offices concerned were tasked with implementing the ban.

Police officers and other force multipliers were also directed to establish checkpoints and conduct regular foot patrols in cemeteries and memorial parks. /apl