REMEMBERING THE DEAD. Cebu City residents light candles on the tombs of their departed loved ones at the Carreta Cemetery. (Photo by Luel Galarpe)
CEBU CITY -- The observance of All Saints' Day in this city was generally peaceful.
Cebu City Police Office (CCPO) director Senior Supt. Royina Garma said Thursday both public and private cemeteries in the city were peaceful amidst the influx of people visiting their departed family members and friends.
Garma said no untoward incident was reported since morning when Cebuanos started flocking to the different cemeteries and memorial parks in the city.
At the Carreta Public Cemetery, police confiscated some contraband including liquor and sharp objects, but the situation was peaceful.
Garma earlier advised the public not to bring alcoholic drinks when they visit their dearly departed as liquor ban is in effect in the cemeteries until All Souls' Day on Friday.
Some personnel from the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) as well as medical teams and ambulance vehicles were also deployed to the cemeteries to assist in case of emergencies.
City Councilor Dave Tumulak, on the other hand, advised people with health problems to better stay home and avoid the scorching heat of the sun after three individuals reportedly fainted due to the heat in cemeteries.
The Philippine Red Cross stationed at Carreta Cemetery attended to one of those who collapsed and cared for nine other people who had hypertension.
Police Station 2 deputy commander Senior Insp. Greg Ybiernas said more than 3,000 people have visited Carreta Cemetery since 6 a.m. He said some visitors did not stay long because of the heat. (PNA)
