Manila: The government is closely monitoring the rising heat indices being recorded in various parts of the country, including Metro Manila. This comes as state weather bureau Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) recorded 'danger' heat indices on Monday, although it has yet to declare the onset of the dry season.

According to Philippines News Agency, Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro assured the public that agencies are prepared to take immediate action to address the potential impacts of extreme heat. Castro stated that the agency will act immediately to address any problems arising from the extreme heat over the coming days.

She mentioned that the government would convene a meeting to discuss the situation in more detail, particularly the action plans of various agencies like the Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), and the Department of Education (DepEd). While the specifics of these plans have not yet been provided, Castro said the agencies have likely begun coordinating their responses.

On Monday, PAGASA stations in Mu±oz, Nueva Ecija forecast 45 degrees; and Science Garden, Quezon City, and Clark Airport in Pampanga 46 degrees. Meanwhile, the city governments of Manila, Valenzuela, Caloocan, Malabon, and Las Pi±as in the National Capital Region have declared a suspension of face-to-face classes on Monday.