Tags: Public Holidays and Celebration
By Alexander Villafania
MANILA CITY, METRO MANILA – Another long weekend will be marked by this year’s All Soul’s Day. Already, many people in urban areas are going to their home province to visit relatives and family members where they will be preparing to visit their dearly departed.
During these occasions, the country’s cemeteries will be filled to the brim by visitors. Often, they will be staying from a few hours to an entire day, laying down wreaths and candles to commemorate their deceased.
However, the weather has been unpredictable lately, with hot days pocked by sudden rainfall, which could be a source of inconvenience to visitors.
If people intend to stay long in cemeteries, they have to be prepared for the unexpected. So far, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) is forecasting clear skies for the next few days, except for occasional rain showers. Still, carrying an umbrella wouldn’t be too much a burden.
Here are some tips to get you along with the long weekend and a visit to the cemetery early next week.
Prepare clothes. Even if November has started to become chilly, the hot sun beating down on cemeteries can cause people to lose their cool, sweat a lot, and could cause some unexpected heat-related conditions such as heatstroke. Wear some loose clothing and if possible, carry an extra shirt and towels.
Bring umbrellas. Bring a big umbrella to block out the sun or in case it suddenly rains. For those who plan to staying long hours in the cemetery, bringing a tent should be advisable.
Bring water and food. Without question water is among the most essential items to be carried during long visits to cemeteries. Food comes second especially if families would bring around young kids.
Bring enough cash. People would mostly be out with their entire families to visit the cemetery, which means people will be expected to visit commercial establishments, and thus they’ll be lining up at the ATM. Avoid long lines and save time from the long wait by carrying just enough cash to buy other essentials.
Charge essential devices. A mobile phone has become such a necessity that it’s actually sometimes more difficult to leave it than one’s wallet. Make sure all mobile phones are charged and save emergency numbers such as police (117), hospitals, and your respective communities’ fire brigade.
Keep all essentials secured. Some unscrupulous criminals might take advantage of the crowd in cemeteries so always keep your important items in check. Put them in bags that can be carried securely and always be mindful of people around you, especially in big crowds.
Come early. Perhaps the best way to avoid the big crowds is to come early at the cemetery. Some people have learned to make their visits in advanced such as coming a day or two before All Souls Day. This way, they can at least feel less stressed from overcrowding and perhaps be able to concentrate in praying for their deceased.
Related stories.
The story behind the famous Sunken Cemetery in Camiguin
Historic Manila North Cemetery is filled with architectural wonders
This memorial shrine houses Quezon’s ‘sarcophagus’
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