AnaKalusugan Party-list warned against the potential rise in heat-related illnesses as the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) continues to record high temperatures in the country.
“Damang-dama na po natin ang tag-init at pinapaalalahanan po natin ang lahat na mag-ingat sa maaaring epekto nito sa ating kalusugan,” AnaKalusugan Party-list Rep. Ray T. Reyes said.
From March 28 to April 1, the agency recorded high temperatures, over 41 degrees Celsius, in multiple locations in the country.
Reyes also encouraged the public to remain vigilant and regularly monitor temperature reports from PAGASA.
“Safety is of paramount importance and extreme caution should be taken during these temperature surges,” Reyes said.
“Maging alerto din po tayo lalo na kapag nakaranas ng mga sintomas ng mga sakit na may kinalaman sa mainit na panahon,” he added.
PAGASA classifies temperatures ranging from 33 to 41 degrees Celsius as “extreme caution” and temperatures from 42 to 51 degrees Celsius as “danger.
From March 28 to April 1, the agency recorded high temperatures, over 41 degrees Celsius, in multiple locations in the country.
Reyes said preventive measures are key in avoiding heat-related illnesses.
He urged the public to follow the tips provided by the Department of Health to prevent heat related illnesses.
“Heat-related illnesses are preventable. Ilan po sa mga maaari natin gawin ngayong tag-init ay ang limitahan ang pananatili sa labas habang tirik ang araw, uminom ng maraming tubig at iwasan ang pag-inom ng tsaa, kape, soda at alak,” Reyes added.
He also called on employers to heed a directive by the Department of Labor and Employment urging organizations to protect employees from heat stress.
Labor Advisory No. 8, series of 2023 recommends various measures to avoid heat stress among employees, which include reducing extreme heat exposure of employees through adequate ventilation and heat insulation in workplaces, adjustments in rest breaks and work locations, use of personal protective equipment, and access to hydration.
“Sundin po sana natin ang advisory na ito para sa kapakanan ng ating mga empleyado, lalo na iyong mga nasa manual labor na kumakayod sa labas ng mga opisina,” said Reyes.
