BAG in front, sprinting to catch a jeepney seat, horns blaring from all sides – the daily chaos is already exhausting. Add in the scorching heat, and the usual hustle turns unbearable. Whether it’s morning, afternoon, or evening, the sun spares no one. In this dry season, the Philippines feels like a literal oven.
From makeshift pamaypays to portable fans and anything remotely refreshing, Filipinos are doing whatever they can to survive this heat wave.
According to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), the country has been experiencing dangerously high heat index levels – with Metro Manila reaching up to 44°C in early May. Filipinos are used to the heat, sure – but this? We’re sizzling. The Philippines be like: It’s getting hot in here!
For 60-year-old Necita Alvarez from Rizal, the heat isn’t just uncomfortable – it’s a health threat. “Ako, dahil hikain, delikado na atakehin. Hindi komportable sa mga may edad na ang sobrang init,” she shared with RepublisAsia. Her concern mirrors warnings from the Department of Health recently, which advised the elderly, children, and those with medical conditions to take extra precautions as the heat index spikes.
Commuting in a heatwave
Edmar Pineda, 21, shared his struggle commuting in Metro Manila during the high heat index, “Pila, lalo na kapag naabutan ng rush hour dahil kahit nakatayo lang, grabe pa rin ang pawis natin dahil sa init ng panahon. Dagdag mo pa ang populasyon na nagiging resulta ng pagsisiksikan sa mga pampublikong sasakyan.”
Same situation with Francis Jayco Dela Cruz, 22, who experienced overcrowding in public utility vehicles, whether jeep, bus, or train.
Jennel Mariano, 21, also shares the same sentiments. As a Gen Z who’s fashion conscious, “Hindi mo rin masusuot lahat ng gusto mong fits every day dahil talagang aangkupan mo yung panahon para di ka mainitan.”
All of them shared that they are forced to adjust their schedules because of the heat. Some chores are done early in the morning while the sun isn’t out yet. Errands and appointments? Moved to late afternoons or nighttime. Outdoor exercise? Postponed. Staying inside malls or any air-conditioned spaces is a go-to solution when the heat becomes unbearable.
Diskarte is the way
But we are not Filipinos for nothing. And although we can all agree that we shouldn’t romanticize being resilient, let’s admit – we do find ways to cope, even in the simplest diskarte.
“Syempre kailangan maligo nang dalawang beses sa isang araw, maghanap ng preskong lugar, uminom ng tubig,” advised Necita.
Jayco has a skincare tip, too, “Mag-apply ng sunscreen o sunblock para na rin maiwasan ang mga sakit sa balat dulot ng exposure sa UV rays. Mapoprotektahan nito ang ating balat na siyang unang tumatanggap ng init galing sa araw.”
Jennel also makes sure to bring wipes, tissues, and a portable fan. Iced water, milk tea, or any cold drink is almost a necessity now. And don’t forget the payong or sombrero! Some commuters even wear arm sleeves or hoodies for extra protection, no matter how ironic it sounds in this weather.
Cold comforts
Others are reaching for cold snacks to beat the heat. Classic Filipino summer staples like halo-halo, mais con yelo, and even simple buko juice or ice tubig from sari-sari stores are selling like hotcakes – wait, cold cakes? Same energy. For many, it’s not just a treat – it’s a survival tactic.
Even work-from-home and hybrid students or professionals are feeling the heat. Some report struggling to concentrate during brownouts or when the fan just isn’t enough. Air conditioning is a luxury not everyone can afford, so people are relying on smart hacks: soaking feet in cold water, placing ice in front of fans, or working in shaded, ventilated areas.
What DOH says
According to the Department of Health (DOH), heat-related illnesses such as heatstroke and heat exhaustion become more likely when the heat index rises above 42°C. To stay safe, they recommend to avoid outdoor activities between 10 AM and 4 PM; to drink 8 to12 glasses of water a day, even if you’re not thirsty; wearing loose, light-colored clothes, and; to bring umbrellas, wide-brimmed hats, or sunscreen to block UV rays.
PAGASA, meanwhile, issues heat index bulletins to guide public precautions. Experts agree that staying informed, hydrated, and indoors when possible is key.
Stay cool, stay hydrated, and may the electric fan always be in your favor!
