Philippines: Increased security measures 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, following the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (BSKE) election public holiday Oct. 30. Millions of Catholics across the Philippines typically travel to their hometowns and visit cemeteries and memorial parks to honor their ancestors during the holiday. Major transport disruptions are likely Oct. 27-Nov. 6 due to heavy traffic volume ahead of the election and after the holiday. Government offices and business closures are likely on the designated public holidays.

Authorities will heighten security around cemeteries and memorial parks across the country. Tight security will also be in place at churches and transport centers nationwide. 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.

Major disruptions are likely Oct. 27-Nov. 6 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 typically enforce road closures or traffic diversions near cemeteries and memorial parks to prevent congestion and 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 Oct. 30-Nov. 2. Confirm all transport reservations and prepare for cancellations and delays if travelling Oct. 27-Nov. 6. Arrive early at the airport to allow additional time for processing. Consider limiting road travel before, during, and after the holidays as a precaution. Drive defensively, especially on highways. Anticipate possible delivery delays; consider alternative transport for time-sensitive shipments. Closely guard valuables in crowded areas. Heed all official advisories and remain cooperative if stopped by authorities for security and health checks.