The Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) has ordered the emergency procurement of undershirts for inmates as the hot season approaches, aiming to prevent heat-related illnesses.

BuCor director general Gregorio Catapang Jr. also directed prison officials to ensure a consistent water supply at all facilities.

Catapang instructed CT/CSupt. Ma. Cecilia V. Villanueva, acting director for Health and Welfare Services, to prepare for the approaching summer months, as announced by the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration.

Villanueva, who also heads the New Bilibid Prison Hospital, emphasized the importance of taking immediate and proactive measures to prevent health problems caused by high heat.

She ordered all bureau-wide Health Service chiefs to monitor conditions, implement preventive actions, and report to the Health and Welfare Services office within 24 hours.

In a memorandum dated 3 March, Villanueva issued warnings about common summer diseases and precautions due to the high heat index. The memo was sent to all directors, superintendents of operating prisons and penal farms, chiefs of health services and hospitals, and chiefs of offices.