ILOILO – Anticipating hazardous heat index (HHI) levels from mid-March to May 2025, Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. has directed all cities, municipalities, and barangays in the province to establish evacuation centers to protect vulnerable residents.
On Thursday, March 13, Defensor issued Executive Order No. 20, Series of 2025, which mandates the implementation of minimum public health standards for hazardous heat conditions in the province.
Under the directive, Hazardous Heat Index Evacuation Centers (HHI Evacuation Centers) must be set up in every local government unit (LGU) to accommodate individuals at risk, including the elderly, pregnant women, children, and those with pre-existing medical conditions that could worsen due to extreme heat.
Guidelines for Evacuation Centers
The order outlines the following provisions for HHI Evacuation Centers:
* Temperature Regulation – Facilities must be air-conditioned or have temperature-regulating systems to protect evacuees from extreme heat.
* Identification of Centers – LGUs must designate existing structures such as barangay halls, health stations, or other evacuation centers that are either already air-conditioned or can be upgraded with cooling systems.
* Operating Hours – Centers will be open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., subject to adjustments based on HHI levels and local protocols.
* Medical and Public Assistance Services – LGUs are required to establish medical and public assistance stations within evacuation centers to address health concerns and other needs of evacuees.
* Regulation and Management – LGUs must formulate protocols to ensure the orderly operation and admission procedures for evacuees.
To support the initiative, the provincial government will provide financial assistance:
* P100,000 for cities and municipalities
* P25,000 for barangays
However, financial aid will only be granted to LGUs that have identified and prepared an HHI facility and are willing to provide counterpart funding. The release of funds will follow guidelines set by the provincial government.
Public Health Standards and Movement Restrictions
Defensor has also adopted the Minimum Public Health Standards for HHI (MPHS-HHI), including a “3Is Strategy” to mitigate heat-related illnesses:
* Avoid sun exposure, particularly between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m.
* Stay hydrated.
* Avoid wearing thick or layered clothing.
To prevent heat-related health risks, outdoor movement between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. will be limited to essential travel and work-related activities. Public gatherings and events may also face restrictions based on HHI levels.
Regulation of Social and Public Events
Under the executive order, social and public events may be canceled, rescheduled, restricted, or required to adopt heightened safety measures, particularly if temperatures exceed 33°C for more than 20 minutes.
Events subject to regulation include:
* local government-sponsored festivals, fiestas, and socio-cultural activities
* school and academic institution events
* conventions, seminars, and workshops
* private celebrations such as birthdays, anniversaries, weddings, and baptisms
* cultural and entertainment performances
* trade fairs and product promotions
* sports activities
* Family gatherings, including thanksgiving celebrations
Indoor events must have adequate venue space and ventilation to prevent crowding. Cool drinking water, emergency medical teams, and cooling appliances must be available.
Workplace Adjustments
The order also requires workplaces, offices, and establishments to implement heat safety measures, including:
* Suspending the requirement for thick or layered uniforms unless the workplace is air-conditioned.
* Adjusting work hours and providing cooling appliances to reduce exposure.
* Designating safety officers to monitor workers’ health and working conditions.
Governor Defensor underscored the urgency of these measures, stressing the provincial government’s commitment to mitigating health risks posed by extreme heat in Iloilo./PN
