BY BENZ FELIX P. SEDUCO, University of Antique Intern
ANTIQUE – The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) has issued a memorandum strengthening precautions and providing appropriate actions to mitigate the rising heat index in the province.
Dated March 17, 2025, the memorandum is in response to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) Memorandum No. 66, series 2025, and Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) Memorandum No. 06, series 2025, which strengthen preparedness measures for severe heat.
Beginning this month, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has been monitoring the province’s heat index, which is projected to be high in the coming week.
Following this, the PDRMMC reminded the public to take these precautions from PAGASA and the Department of Health (DOH) to prevent detrimental effects of heat-related illnesses:
* Limit the time you spend outdoors.
* Drink lots of water.
* Avoid coffee, tea, soda, and liquor.
*Wear umbrellas, hats, and long-sleeved clothing outside.
*Heavy-duty activities should be scheduled for the beginning or end of the day when the weather is cooler.
The PDRRMC encouraged the public to cooperate with the authorities, as it collaborates with government entities to safeguard the public from high heat.
All relevant stakeholders, including members of the provincial and municipal/barangay disaster risk reduction and management councils (M/BDRRMCs), national government agencies, non-governmental organizations, public and private institutions were urged to increase public safety measures and take the appropriate measures.
Also, in compliance with the said memorandum, M/BDRRMCs, and concerned response cluster member agencies should submit situational reports and updates to the PDRRMC for appropriate reporting and consolidation./PN
