The Philippine National Police (PNP) advised its patrolling officers to take precautions against extreme heat, warning of potential health risks such as heat stroke, heart attacks, and heat exhaustion.
PNP spokesperson and Central Luzon Director Brigadier General Jean Fajardo emphasized the importance of hydration and seeking shade when necessary.
“If your job is a patrol officer and your duty is 12 hours, you don’t have to go there for 12 hours in the heat. You can also take shelter from time to time,” she said.
Meanwhile, the PNP Highway Patrol Group (HPG) is considering reinstating the use of short pants for officers to provide relief from the heat.
HPG spokesperson Police Lt. Nadame Malang said they are reviewing uniform options to ensure officers remain comfortable while on duty.
“We are evaluating if this will be approved by higher headquarters,” Malang said. She noted that, at present, only sublimation uniforms, which are cooler, have been approved. The HPG command group is exploring more options to ensure its personnel can perform their duties in extreme heat.
The advisory comes as Metro Manila recorded a heat index of 46°C on Monday and 42°C on Tuesday.
