10 Health and Safety Guidelines for UNDAS 2026

During Halloween, trick-or-treating is one of the most notable activities most people look forward to. But this holiday is not just about dressing up as your favorite characters, collecting candies, and enjoying seasonal festivities; it is also the start of the solemn Filipino tradition of honoring and remembering their departed loved ones.

As Undas 2026 approaches, families are gearing up for long travels, cemetery visits, and holiday gatherings. While honoring loved ones and celebrating All Souls’ Day and All Saints’ Day bring Filipinos together, long hours in crowded spaces can take a toll on our health.

Before heading out this long weekend, Medicare Plus reminds you to keep these essential health and safety guidelines in mind to keep your loved ones protected

What is Undas in the Philippines?

Every November 1 and 2, Filipinos celebrate Undas (derived from the Spanish word honras, meaning “honors”), which is a unique tradition merging Halloween fun with All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day.

During Undas, Filipino families gather at cemeteries to clean, offer flowers, and light candles at the graves of their loved ones. They share meals and engage in overnight vigils, while others set up home altars with photos to offer prayers and honor their ancestors.

How to Stay Safe and Healthy During Undas?

As Filipinos observe this solemn season, many are gearing up to travel to their hometowns and spend time with their families. Because these festivities can easily take a toll on your health, Medicare Plus sends a gentle reminder that looking after your well-being is as important as remembering your departed loved ones.

Prepare for the long journey. Boost your energy and stamina for long cemetery visits by getting a good night’s sleep and eating a hearty meal before leaving.
Wear a Mask. Protect yourself against airborne illnesses by wearing a mask in crowded areas or on public transport.
Pack Non-Perishable Food. Prevent food poisoning and unnecessary emergency room visits by packing meals that don’t spoil easily in hot weather. Stick to dry or non-perishable dishes to keep your family safe during long cemetery visits.
Stay hydrated. Keep yourself well hydrated throughout the day by bringing your own water bottle or purchasing bottled drinks from trusted sources.
Sanitize regularly. Maintain good hygiene by washing or disinfecting your hands frequently throughout the day.
Pack First-Aid & Meds. Always bring a mini first-aid kit and your daily maintenance medications when visiting crowded cemeteries to ensure you are prepared for unexpected minor mishaps or health needs.
Outdoor & Weather Prepration. Bring a tent, umbrella, and mud-safe footwear to protect you from the elements. Don’t forget insect repellent such as stickers, lotions, or sprays to protect against mosquitoes.
Check Schedules & Traffic. Look up cemetery operating hours and road closure advisories in advance to plan a hassle-free trip. You can check your local government announcements prior to your cemetery visits.
Avoid Peak Crowds. Plan your visit during off-peak hours such as early morning or non-peak days to avoid long queues, traffic jams, and overwhelming crowds.
Be prepared for the unexpected. Long travels, crowded places, and unpredictable weather can cause accidents or sudden illnesses. Protect your family with ER Guard, a prepaid emergency health card in the Philippines, so you can spend family time together with peace of mind.

Bottomline

As Undas, an old tradition that brings Filipino families together approaches, remember that staying safe and healthy should remain a priority. By preparing for long trips, practicing good hygiene, staying hydrated, and being prepared for sudden illnesses and accidents, you can protect your family from common holiday health hazards.

When you honor your departed loved ones this All Souls’ Day and All Saints’ Day, don’t forget to look after your well-being. Having an emergency protection like ER Guard by Medicare Plus ensures your family enjoys peace of mind throughout Undas.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Undas in the Philippines?
Undas is a solemn Filipino tradition held on All Saints’ Day (Nov 1) and All Souls’ Day (Nov 2). It is a time when families gather at cemeteries to light candles, offer flowers, say prayers, and share meals, to honor and remember their departed loved ones.

2. Are face masks still necessary during Undas 2026?
Wearing a mask is highly recommended, especially in high-density areas and public transportation to protect against common airborne illnesses.

3. How can we avoid massive crowds and long traffic jams at the cemetery?
Plan to visit during off-peak hours, such as early in the morning or on non-peak days before or after November 1st and 2nd. Always check local city traffic advisories and cemetery operating hours in advance.

4. How can we avoid food poisoning during long cemetery visits?
Pack non-perishable foods or dry dishes that do not spoil easily in hot weather.

5. Why do we need an ER Guard during Undas 2026?
During Undas, many Filipino families hit the road, visit crowded cemeteries, stay out late, and navigate unpredictable outdoor weather. While it is a cherished holiday for family gatherings and honoring departed loved ones, it poses health risks. ER Guard, a reliable prepaid health card in the Philippines, provides an extra layer of protection for your family.

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