Quezon city: The Quezon City government has created a dedicated heat action team to strengthen cooling initiatives, improve preparedness, and mitigate the impact of extreme temperatures, as the weather bureau warned that dangerous heat conditions may continue across many parts of the country despite the onset of the rainy season.
According to Philippines News Agency, in a news release Wednesday, Mayor Joy Belmonte stated that the new QC Heat Action Team (QC-HAT) is tasked with developing strategies to reduce the impact of extreme heat and protect vulnerable sectors as the city continues experiencing high temperatures. Belmonte highlighted that in recent years, high heat indices have prompted widespread class suspensions, severely disrupting the continuity of education.
"The city government recognizes extreme heat as a critical public health and safety emergency. It unfairly affects the most marginalized sector, specifically those belonging to the informal sector and outdoor workers who lack cool, safe, and decent housing, and immediate health services," Belmonte said. She emphasized the need for strategic actions against extreme heat, aiming to create a comprehensive Quezon City Heat Action Plan that is responsive and inclusive to the needs of the people.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) warned that high heat index levels may persist in many areas until mid-June, even as the southwest monsoon, or 'habagat', already sets in. They indicated 'danger level' heat indices ranging from 42 to 51 degrees Celsius remain possible during the 'habagat' season in a few areas. Belmonte noted that Quezon City recorded heat indices averaging between 42 and 44 degrees Celsius in 2024 and 2025, which fall within the danger category.
The Department of Health previously warned that extreme heat may cause heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and increase the risk of heat stroke with prolonged exposure. Recognizing this, Belmonte reiterated that extreme heat poses a growing threat to public health and safety, particularly among vulnerable sectors. She stated that the QC-HAT is responsible for developing and implementing a comprehensive strategy to mitigate the impacts of extreme heat, protect vulnerable populations, and enhance the city's resilience to climate change brought about by heat and drought.
The team will also conduct vulnerability assessments in communities, implement heat mitigation strategies, and recommend heat action policies to the City Council. They plan to engage with stakeholders to expand initiatives and advocate solutions to heat-related issues.
