DILG Chief Allows Lighter Uniforms for Security Agencies

MANILA, Philippines – Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benhur Abalos has allowed police, firefighters and correctional staff to wear comfortable uniforms as the heat index across the country continues to rise to a “dangerous” level.

In an “urgent memorandum” issued on April 25, Abalos ordered the heads of the Philippine National Police, the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), and the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) to issue a warning that all your staff wore light clothing. uniforms when performing their respective duties.

The measure, according to Abalos, “would help mitigate discomfort and reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses such as heat cramps, exhaustion and heatstroke.”

READ: Metro Manila, 31 other areas to see dangerous heat index on Friday

He stressed that “the well-being of our uniformed personnel comes first, especially as they perform their sworn duty.”

“The tri-bureau's line of work already presents many risks, now associated with the dangers of extreme heat. This is why we need to protect our uniformed personnel of the PNP, BFP and BJMP,” he said.

Dangerous levels

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) earlier warned that the heat index in the country could reach dangerous levels in several areas of the country.

On Friday, 39 areas across the country recorded dangerous heat index levels, with the city of Dagupan in Pangasinan recording the highest heat index at 48 degrees Celsius.

Pagasa also advised the public to limit time outdoors and drink plenty of water.

The Department of Health has also issued an advisory to take precautionary measures against the dangers of heat-related illnesses.

Classes in several areas of the Philippines were also suspended last week due to the country's dangerous heat levels.