The Department of Health (DOH) on Monday, Oct. 30, advised the public ahead of Undas season to forgo bringing children to cemeteries.

"I am advising parents and caregivers not to bring small children to cemeteries as overcrowding and intense heat and sudden unexpected downpour may cause diseases to small children," Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa said in a statement.

The DOH Secretary added that despite the dip in cases of COVID-19, a visible threat of the disease was still present and could possibly affect children who have low resistance to infections.

“The threat of the [COVID-19] disease is still present. There are still sporadic cases and increasing cases in some regions,” he said.

Herbosa also cautioned the public from patronizing vendors around cemeteries selling snack items as these could be contaminated by unsafe water and other components from the environment, which might compromise consumers' health.

The DOH urged people to bring their own food and water to ensure the safety of their visit and prevent any diseases.

"We can all prevent contracting diseases when visiting our dearly departed loved ones. Let us be responsible with our actions and make our visit solemn,” Hebrosa said.