Piscatores

The Philippines is experiencing unusually difficult situations due to high temperatures. The heat has become an unavoidable reality for millions of Filipinos, from the crowded streets of Manila to the isolated villages of Mindanao, forcing schools in some areas to suspend in-person classes and prompting people to limit the amount of time spent outdoors. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) stated that El Niño is slowly losing strength, yet its impacts could still be felt across the nation. PAGASA's Senior Weather Specialist, Ruby Abastillas, warns of potential hotter and drier conditions despite the weakening of El Niño, as the hottest days have yet to come in May. There was a 50% chance of reaching 42.2°C for May’s maximum daytime temperatures, as warned by PAGASA. The May forecasts present a hopeless picture. Highlighting the gravity of the problem is the range of maximum temperatures from 31.5–40.8°C in Northern Luzon to 33.5–38.3°C in Metro Manila. As temperatures rise to previously unheard-of levels, it is obvious that immediate action is required to address the high-temperature catastrophe afflicting our country. Addressing the underlying causes of the severe heat in the Philippines requires unity. Collaboration is required between communities, government entities, and individuals. Prioritizing actions to lessen the effects of heat, including heat health action plans and easier access to cooling facilities, as well as addressing factors that contribute to global warming, like sustainable practices and renewable energy, are crucial. The high-temperature crisis facing the Philippines demands urgent action and collective effort.