The Bacolod City Government on Tuesday held a dialogue with more than 100 families regarding the proposed transfer of about 450 human remains from deteriorating tombs at Burgos Public Cemetery to the newly constructed Bone Vault at Handumanan Public Cemetery.
During the meeting at the Bacolod City Government Center (BCGC) lobby, representatives from the General Services Office (GSO) and the City Administrator’s Office explained the need to transfer the remains from damaged niches along the cemetery’s perimeter wall facing Lopez Jaena Street.
GSO Head Gilda Luisma said many of the old tombs sustained severe damage from a series of typhoons last year. “Some of the remains have already become exposed and scattered outside their niches, making the transfer necessary for public safety and to preserve the dignity of the deceased,” Luisma said.
She added that each bone vault can accommodate three to four sets of remains and that the transfer will be conducted in phases, prioritizing damaged niches along critical areas such as the perimeter fence. Religious rites will also be observed throughout the process.
City Administrator Atty. Mark Steven Mayo assured families that the city government will shoulder all expenses related to the transfer. “From exhumation and the proper handling and wrapping of the bones, with the option for families to witness the process, to the installation of grave markers, everything will be provided free of charge. The bone vault niches in Handumanan are also free,” Mayo said.
He clarified that families who wish to transfer the remains of their loved ones to private cemeteries may do so at their own expense. The City Health Office also discussed sanitation protocols and the requirements for exhumation permits.
Meanwhile, the City Engineer’s Office (CEO) presented the proposed redevelopment plan for the Lopez Jaena side of Burgos Public Cemetery after the transfer is completed. Architect Jaries Encabo of the CEO explained the design of the bone vaults and addressed concerns regarding name corrections, burial arrangements, and the vault’s capacity.
Mayo also dismissed misinformation circulating about the project. “There is no plan to sell Burgos Public Cemetery to Megaworld,” he said.
He added that a city ordinance authorizes the local government to act on dilapidated structures that pose safety risks, particularly those affecting public access. Among those who attended the dialogue was 63-year-old Azela Nepomuceno, whose relatives are buried at Burgos Cemetery.
“It’s really a good decision because the situation at Burgos Cemetery has become difficult to manage. Sometimes we’re even afraid to visit because of its condition, so transferring the remains to Handumanan is the better option.
Before, the pathways had become so narrow that it was difficult to pass through. That’s why we support the transfer. As soon as we heard about it, we immediately went to the Public Affairs and Assistance Division to inquire,” she said.
The initiative aims to remove safety hazards along Lopez Jaena Street while paving the way for wider sidewalks, safer pedestrian access, and additional green spaces once the affected area is cleared.(BACOLOD CITY COMMUNICATIONS OFFICE)
