By Mariela Angella Oladive
Iloilo Governor Arthur Defensor Jr. has signed Executive Order No. 20, Series of 2025, mandating the implementation of Minimum Public Health Standards for Hazardous Heat Index (MPHS-HHI) across the province.
The order, signed on Thursday, March 13, aligns with National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) Memorandum Order No. 66 and Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) Memorandum Order No. 08, both issued on March 4.
These measures aim to prevent heat-related illnesses and protect vulnerable residents as temperatures are expected to soar from March to May.
Additionally, the Department of Health (DOH) issued Circular No. 0161, Series of 2024, recommending actions to mitigate hazardous heat effects.
Under the directive, public events, including school activities, outdoor gatherings, and work schedules, will be regulated based on heat index levels:
-Extreme Danger (≥52°C): Highly recommended cancellation of outdoor and physically intensive activities.
-Danger (42-51°C): Restrictions for vulnerable individuals, rescheduling of activities, and increased hydration breaks.
-Extreme Caution (33-41°C): Encouraged rescheduling and mandatory hydration breaks.
-Caution (27-32°C): Unrestricted activities with health monitoring.
The order also mandates the establishment of HHI Evacuation Centers in cities, municipalities, and barangays to protect vulnerable residents, including the elderly, pregnant women, children, and individuals with health conditions exacerbated by extreme heat.
To support this initiative, financial aid of PHP100,000 will be allocated to cities and municipalities, while barangays will receive PHP25,000.
These centers will be air-conditioned or temperature-regulated facilities, such as barangay halls and health stations, or structures prepared for air-conditioning installation and capacity enhancement.
They will operate daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., or as determined by local authorities based on heat index levels, and will provide medical and public assistance services.
Local government units (LGUs) are responsible for identifying suitable facilities, ensuring proper management, and implementing health protocols to safeguard occupants.
The guidelines emphasize adherence to the “3Is Strategy”: Iwas sa init ng araw (Avoid sunlight), Inom ng maraming tubig (Stay hydrated), and Iwas sa makakapal na damit (Avoid thick clothing).
Authorities advise limiting outdoor activities between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., when temperatures are at their peak.
As a precaution, residents are encouraged to avoid exposure to temperatures exceeding 33°C for more than 20 minutes to prevent heat-related illnesses.
Indoor events must maintain proper ventilation, provide access to cool drinking water, and have medical response teams on standby for heat-related emergencies.
In workplaces and offices, regulations include suspending thick and layered uniforms, except in air-conditioned environments.
Employers are encouraged to adjust work hours and provide cooling facilities to protect employees from heat stress.
Additionally, a Safety Officer must be appointed to monitor workers’ health and ensure compliance with safety protocols.
Defensor has stressed the need for community cooperation and vigilance in protecting public health during the hazardous heat season.
