The Philippines Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pag-Asa) has been on watch especially this summer when reports of intense heat continue to deteriorate due to El Nino.
Last week the weather agency issued a forecast saying its onset isexpected this June-July-August period with an 80 percent probability of lasting till the first quarter of 2024. And so the El Nino Southern Oscillation Alert and Warning System was raised to El Nino Alert.
Currently the country has continued to experience a 42-51 degree Celsius heat which would increase the likelihood of cramps and exhaustion especially for those on the road.
With these developments the Senate has pushed for amendments to Republic Act 10121 or the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act of 2010. Sen.Win Gathalian has filed Senate Bill No. 939 or an Act Expanding the Application of the Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Fund to strengthen 'disaster preparedness, mitigation, response, and rehabilitation capabilities' of the Local Government Units (LGU).
The initiative can be effected through LGUs use of Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (LDRRM) fund which would be earmarked for mitigation purposes.