Iloilo mandates evacuation centers for extreme heat

The provincial government of Iloilo has mandated the implementation of minimum public health standards for hazardous heat index, including the establishment of evacuation centers to protect vulnerable residents from extreme heat.

Governor Arthur Defensor Jr., through Executive Order No. 20 issued Thursday, directed local government units (LGUs) to set up air-conditioned or temperature-regulated evacuation centers as primary protection measures.

The provincial government will release PHP43 million to support municipalities and barangays in establishing these centers, with guidelines for assistance still being finalized.

Local officials are already discussing implementation details, and the province aims to expand the concept of heat relief facilities seen in Bingawan town's air-conditioned gymnasium for senior citizens.

These evacuation centers will operate daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., providing medical assistance for at-risk individuals during extreme heat conditions, and restricting outdoor activities between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. when temperatures exceed 33 degrees Celsius.