ILOILO City – The city government temporarily suspended flag ceremonies this month due to the high heat index.
Mayor Jerry P. Treñas issued an executive order relative to this following an incident during last Monday’s flag ceremony – a 29-year old female employee fainted and her blood sugar level shot up.
“If that can happen to a 29-year-old, it can also happen to a senior employee of the city government… Para sa akon importante ang ikaayong lawas sang aton mga empleyado,” said Treñas.
In issuing Executive Order 056, the city mayor cited that employees who have health concerns, conditions or illnesses directly attributed to sunlight exposure and prolonged standing, must be given consideration, especially the elderly.
It further cited that in the heat index recorded by the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration, Iloilo City does not fall below 40 degrees Celcius classified as in “danger” of suffering from heat cramps and heat exhaustion which could lead to heat stroke.
Despite the temporary suspension of flag ceremonies, the city mayor said the Philippine flag will still be raised every Monday and there will be singing of the national anthem.
By June, Treñas said they will assess the situation whether to continue the suspension of the conduct of flag ceremonies.
He noted this move of the city government has been consulted with the Civil Service Commission./PN
