• CHRYSEE G. SAMILLANO
A resolution urging the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO), City Health Office (CHO), all barangays, and educational institutions to implement mitigation protocols amid the rising the heat index in Bacolod City, was approved by the Bacolod Sangguniang Panlungsod Wednesday.
Authored by Councilor Em Ang, the resolution said the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has recorded rising heat indices in various parts of the country, including Bacolod City, reaching levels classified as “danger” and “extreme caution”.
Prolonged exposure to extreme heat poses serious health risks such as heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and dehydration, particularly to vulnerable sectors including children, the elderly, outdoor workers, and persons with comorbidities, it said.
Section 16 of Republic Act No.7160, or the Local Government Code, mandates local government units to promote the health and safety of its constituents, the resolution said.
The Sangguniang Panlungsod recognizes the urgent need for coordinated, preemptive measures to protect the public from heat-related illnesses and ensure continuity of essential services, especially in schools and communities, it said.
Mitigation protocols and public advisories are necessary to minimize risks and guide institutions in responding to extreme heat conditions, the resolution said.
The SP is strongly urging the CDRRMO to activate heat index monitoring and issue timely public advisories; coordinate with PAGASA for localized forecasts and alerts; and pre-position resources for emergency response to heat-related incidents.
It is also urging the CHO to intensify information campaigns on prevention of heat-related illnesses; advise hospitals and health centers to prepare for possible surge of heat-related cases; and deploy health personnel to conduct monitoring in high-risks areas and during public events.*
