The local government of Manila started to close several roads on Thursday as an influx of visitors to the city's cemeteries are expected during the observance of All Saints Day and All Souls Day over the weekend.

According to the Manila Traffic and Parking Bureau (MTPB) the roads that will be closed to motorists includes the entire stretch of Blumentritt St. from A. Bonifacio to Aurora Blvd.; Dimasalang from Retiro St. to Calavite St.; Maceda from Makiling St. to Dimasalang St.; Southbound Lane of Dimasalang Bridge and Aurora Blvd. from Felix Huertas Rd. to Matandang Sora near the South Gate of Chinese Cemetery.

The road closure that will start from 10 pm of October 30 will be lifted after 7pm of November 3. The MTPB noted that the "actual closing and opening of affected roads will be based on the traffic situation".

Following the road closure, the MTPB advised all the vehicles coming from Dimasalang Road intending to use Blumentritt Road shall turn right to Makiling Street going to the point of destinations while those that will come from Quezon City utilizing A. Bonifacio Ave. shall turn left to Labo St. and for vehicles coming from Maceda St. intending to utilize Dimasalang St. or Retiro St. shall turn right to Makiling St.

The MTPB also announced the designated parking space which includes P. Guevarra St. from Blumentritt Rd. to Aurora Blvd.; F. Huertas St. from Blumentritt Rd. to Aurora Blvd.; and Oroquieta St. from Blumentritt Rd. to Aurora Blvd.

As part of the city's preparation for the observance of Undas, Manila Mayor Francisco Domagoso conducted a field inspection in Manila North Cemetery on Thursday morning.

In an interview, Domagoso assures that the local government of Manila is fully prepared for the expected influx of visitors in public cemeteries over the weekend.

"About a week ago, we already made a directive to the Manila Health Department para sa ating North Cemetery, South Cemetery, and the Islamic Cemetery, to prepare for the influx of people who will visit their loved ones,” he said.

Domagoso also reminded the public that sharp objects and firearms are strictly prohibited, and that only uniformed police officers are allowed to carry weapons inside the cemeteries. Robina Asido/DMS