MANILA, (PIA) — The Malabon City government has initiated a program for free cremation of deceased Malabueños, while officially reopening the Tugatog Public Cemetery (TPC) on Saturday, October 19. The reopening coincides with the upcoming observance of All Saints Day and All Souls Day, known locally as Undas 2024.
Mayor Jeannie Sandoval led the ceremony, which included a Holy Mass dedicated to the souls of those interred at the cemetery. The reopening allows families to visit and pay their respects to their loved ones.
Prior to this event, the city government offered free cremation services for remains exhumed during the cemetery’s redevelopment. Mayor Sandoval visited the TPC on October 16 to address the concerns of families who applied for the free cremation service.
“Hindi po namin pababayaan ang inyong mga mahal sa buhay na yumao. Itong libreng cremation na ating inilapit ay isa sa mga paunang serbisyong ating maibibigay,” the mayor stated, emphasizing the city’s commitment to ensuring the proper care of the remains and providing peace to grieving families.
As part of the initiative, the city government distributed consent forms for families wishing to avail themselves of the cremation services. Options were also provided for transferring remains to the cemetery’s ossuary or to other burial sites.
The City Health Department reported that over 500 families have expressed interest in the free cremation package, which covers transportation, urns, and other associated costs.
To facilitate the cremation, the city partnered with a crematorium in Valenzuela City, where approximately 20 remains were transported for processing.
On October 12, Mayor Sandoval inspected the TPC to ensure that the cemetery, including the newly inaugurated Wall of Remembrance, ossuary, and columbarium, was ready for reopening. City officials undertook various repair and landscaping efforts to prepare the area for visitors.
The local government has also established an action center to assist visitors in locating the niches and vaults in the columbarium and to maintain cleanliness and order during the commemoration period.
Additionally, portalets, water stations, and sanitizers have been placed throughout the cemetery for visitor convenience.
A two-storey building with approximately 600 apartment tombs is currently under construction to increase burial space for Malabueños.
City Administrator Dr. Alexander Rosete reassured residents that the remains exhumed during the redevelopment are safe and that support is available for families. He reiterated the local government’s commitment to enhancing services and programs for the community and their deceased loved ones.
“Hindi po kayo mag-aalala dahil sisiguruhin natin na matatapos ang redevelopment na ito sa lalong madaling panahon,” Rosete added, highlighting the city’s dedication to improving the cemetery and the services provided. (JCO/PIA-NCR)
(Photos: Malabon PIO)
