Gov’t to act promptly on impact of dry season, says Palace
This file photo shows a dried up fishpond in the town of Carmen in Bohol when dry spell hit many areas in 2024. The Palace said the government will respond quickly to address the impact of the dry season especially to crops. INQUIRER file photo / LEO UDTOHAN
MANILA, Philippines — The government will promptly respond to the adverse effects of the upcoming dry season, Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro vowed on Monday.
At a Palace briefing, Castro was asked how the administration will protect the agricultural sector against the damage that will be brought by the anticipated dry season, particularly since “danger” level heat index is already being experienced in some parts of the country.
READ: El Niño damage to PH agri nears P6B
“As of now, talaga po ay hindi pa po kami nakakapag-usap patungkol diyan, pero kung ito po talaga ay nakikita po, nababanaag po ang matinding epekto, kikilos po talaga agad ang mga ahensiya para po matugunan kung anuman ang magiging problema sa mga susunod na araw itong napakatinding init na nararamdaman natin,” she responded.
Article continues after this advertisement(As of now, we really haven’t been able to talk about that, but if this is really visible, the strong impact is reflected, the agencies will act immediately to address whatever will be a problem in the next few days—this extreme heat that we are feeling.)
Article continues after this advertisementCastro, who is also designated as Palace Press Officer, said government agencies are set to conduct a meeting regarding the anticipated effects on the high heat index.
READ: DOH warns vs heat-related illnesses amid high heat index
Earlier in the day, the Department of Health warned the public about heat-related illnesses amid the state weather bureau’s forecast of “danger” heat index levels in Quezon City, Pampanga, and Nueva Ecija.
A heat index of 42 to 51°C—which falls under the “danger” category—can lead to heat cramps and heat exhaustion, with affected individuals manifesting symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness, headaches, and vomiting.
With that, the health department issued the following first-aid measures for heat-related illnesses:
Move the person to a shaded, cool area with proper ventilation.
Remove excess clothing.
Apply cold compresses, ice packs, cold water, or damp cloths to the head, face, neck, armpits, wrists, ankles, and groin.
If the patient is conscious, encourage slow and frequent sips of cold water.
Seek emergency medical help or bring the person to a hospital immediately.
