Catholic church urges end to 'day of the dead' graveside picnics in Philippines

Millions of people across the Philippines packed into cemeteries yesterday to pay respects to their dead, in an annual tradition that combines Catholic religious rites with the country's penchant for festivity.

The church appealed for a solemn and prayerful observation of the "day of the dead" and urged against turning gravesites into picnic spots.

Police set up frisking booths at some cemetery gates to confiscate alcoholic beverages, playing cards, portable karaoke machines and weapons as huge crowds endured slow-moving queues on All Saints' Day.

"It is very important for Filipinos to pay respects to their dead. This is also a chance for a family reunion," government worker Mary Joy Pasigan, 21, said at a cemetery north of Manila.

Pasigan carried her five-year-old niece past cramped corridors of tombs to offer sunflowers and orchids to her dead grandparents.

Conchita Pura, 60, brought sandwiches for her two-hour vigil at the tombs of her aunt and uncle. "We come here to light candles and offer prayers so that their sins may be forgiven," she said.