As the summer season continues to intensify heat conditions throughout the Philippines, in Iloilo, the city government has started to place cooling stations around public areas to give immediate relief to both commuters and pedestrians.
It is part of a plan led by Mayor Raisa Treñas to combat the effects of high heat index levels, which has affected residents in recent years, through immediate and long-term strategies.
According to city officials, the cooling and water stations will serve as “temporary resting areas,” especially for commuters waiting for public utility vehicles and taxis in peak heat hours.
These centers are intended to offer improved ventilation and water access instead of air-conditioning systems, in order to provide help to residents adjusting to temperature shifts more safely. Operations will be done between 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., during when temperature levels are at their highest.
The city’s initiative comes following elevated heat index levels being felt in several parts of the Western Visayas regions, which has prompted local governments to implement measures to reduce risks brought on by heat.
Officials from Iloilo’s local government have already identified public areas which observe heavy foot traffic, including plazas, as areas for potential for facilities, as these are ideal locations where people could benefit from more ventilated and cool spaces.
Members of the City’s Social Welfare and Development Office and Health Office are to be deployed to these centers as well, in order to assist individuals that may experience heat-related symptoms and respond to emergencies quickly.
Written by Francis Santos, Insight PH
Francis Santos, Insight PH is a dedicated campus journalist and contributor. Their insightful writing sparks meaningful conversations and keeps the community informed.
