The government is preparing measures to address the rising heat index, Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Undersecretary Claire Castro said Monday.
“The government is always prepared for this. If it affects our economy, we are ready to respond,” Castro said in a press briefing at Malacañang.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) reported that its stations in Quezon City and Clark Airport in Pampanga recorded heat index levels in the “danger” category.
Castro noted that the Department of Health (DOH) had already issued a public advisory urging people to take precautions against extreme heat. She added that additional government measures are being consolidated.
“As of now, we are still compiling further action plans regarding this matter, but the DOH has already released its advisory,” she said.
Earlier, PAGASA warned that high temperatures increase the risk of heat-related illnesses such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke.
The Department of Health (DOH) advised the public to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., and use protective gear when outdoors.
The rising heat index signals the possible arrival of the warm dry season, with PAGASA monitoring the weakening of the northeast monsoon and the increasing influence of easterlies.
The agency may officially declare the start of the dry season within the first two weeks of March.
