Philippines: Tight security likely nationwide during All Saints' Day holidays Nov. 1-2

Event

The Philippines will mark the annual All Saints' Day and All Souls' Day public holidays Nov. 1-2. Government offices and business closures are likely during the holidays.

While millions of Catholics typically visit cemeteries and memorial parks to honor their ancestors, the government has ordered such facilities nationwide to close through Nov. 2 due to COVID-19 concerns. Authorities will heighten security around cemeteries and memorial parks across the country, as people observing the rites will probably still visit the vicinity of the facilities despite the closure. Tight security will also be in place at churches and transport centers nationwide during the holidays. While the government has not announced specific terror threats to date, officials have issued terrorism warnings around the holiday time frame in the past. The discovery of suspicious packages could lead to security scares at shopping centers and transport hubs, prompting brief localized disruptions. Petty crime, such as theft and pickpocketing, typically heightens during the holiday period.

Transport and business disruptions are likely during the holidays due to increased domestic travel and heightened security measures. Highway congestion, as well as delays to domestic flights and long-distance ferry and bus services, are likely. Regional police forces may establish public assistance centers at major transport routes in anticipation of heavy traffic.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Confirm all official and business appointments during the holidays. Confirm all transport reservations and prepare for cancellations and delays. Consider limiting road travel before, during, and after the holidays as a precaution. Drive defensively, especially on highways. Closely guard valuables in crowded areas. Heed all official advisories and remain cooperative if stopped by authorities for security and health checks.