Civil Defense activates emergency measures amid dangerous heat

The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) activated Friday its emergency response protocols as 25 areas across the Philippines face potentially dangerous heat levels this weekend, based on the latest index released by the state weather bureau.

According to the OCD, all regional offices are on alert and working closely with local authorities to provide immediate assistance and ensure public safety approaching the tail end of Holy Week break.

As of 5:00 p.m. on April 18, the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) placed at least 25 locations from Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao in the ‘orange’ code or the ‘danger zone.’

The category indicates forecast temperatures ranging between 42°C to 51°C with Ambulong in Tanauan, Batangas and Infanta, Quezon leading the list at 44°C.

Residents in Pasay City, Metro Manila; Tuguegarao City, Cagayan; Subic Bay, Olongapo City; San Ildefonso, Bulacan; Iloilo City and Dumangas, Iloilo; La Granja in La Carlota, Negros Occidental; Catarman, Northern Samar; and Zamboanga City, Zamboanga del Sur could feel the heat at 43°C.

“We urge everyone to exercise extra caution during this period of extreme heat. Stay indoors, when possible, hydrate regularly and be vigilant for symptoms of heat-related illnesses,” OCD Administrator Undersecretary Ariel Nepomuceno said in a statement.

“Our regional offices are on high alert and ready to respond to any emergencies. Safety is a collective effort, and we must all do our part to keep our communities safe,” he added.

Nepomuceno advised everyone to stay in shaded or well-ventilated areas, wear lightweight clothing, and drink at least eight glasses of water daily. He recommends using cold compresses or ice packs and wearing hats, caps, or umbrellas outdoors to manage the heat. — Rex Espiritu