The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) issued a memorandum highlighting the urgent need for heightened preparedness in response to rising temperatures linked to the weakening of the Northeast Monsoon.
OCD Administrator and National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) Executive Director Undersecretary Ariel Nepomuceno issued Memorandum No. 66 series of 2025 as the nation transitions into warmer months.
“As we approach the warmer months, it is imperative to recognize the potential risks associated with high heat index levels. The high heat index poses significant health risks including heat exhaustion and heat stroke. It is our responsibility to ensure the safety and well-being of our communities through proactive measures,” Nepomuceno said.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has been closely monitoring the heat index since early March and predicts further increases in the coming week.
In response, the NDRRMC recommends that all councils and agencies prepare by ensuring the availability of protective gear and adequate medical supplies for emergencies.
To mitigate the risks of heat-related illnesses, the memorandum outlines several key preventive measures, namely: limiting the time spent outdoors, drinking plenty of water, avoiding tea, coffee, soda, and liquor; using umbrellas, wearing hats and sleeved clothing outdoors, and scheduling heavy-duty activities for the beginning or end of the day when it’s cooler.
Nepomuceno likewise directed all OCD regional directors to collaborate with national and local agencies to closely monitor their areas of responsibility (AORs) and provide regular updates via the NDRRMC Monitoring Dashboard.
In light of the anticipated high heat index, all regional directors are urged to monitor their respective AORs diligently and coordinate with Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (LDRRM) counterparts.
This collaboration will ensure that response and emergency vehicles are prepared for deployment and that medical supplies are sufficient to address potential emergencies stemming from extreme heat.
“We encourage everyone to assist the Department of Health (DOH) in spreading public awareness about preventing heat-related illnesses,” Nepomuceno said.
