Caloocan, Malabon enforcers get adjustments for dry season

Traffic enforcers in the cities of Caloocan and Malabon have started their preparations as humid temperatures are being felt across the Metro.

In Caloocan City, the local government provided traffic enforcers with shorts to make their uniforms more comfortable and breathable.

“For the upcoming hot weather, this would solve the humid feeling that our traffic enforcers experience during their respective duties,” Julius De Jesus, Deputy Chief of Caloocan Traffic Management Office said.

“So far we are still fixing the scheduling on when will the enforcers wear their shorts, but it will be implemented soon.”

The local government of Caloocan City implements two work shifts for traffic enforcers: from 5 AM to 2 PM and from 2 PM to 10 PM.

“Our traffic enforcers are allowed to take breaks in between, especially if the traffic flow is light, as long as it won’t fall during rush hour.”

De Jesus also mentioned that, aside from the comfortable clothing, they have installed water refilling stations and medicine spots in different traffic stations within the city.

The deputy chief added that they held a meeting to ensure traffic enforcers get a much-needed break, particularly from midday to early afternoon when the heat is at its peak.

"One of our proposals is to allow enforcers to take shelter when the heat index is extremely high, especially when the roads are not too busy."

With some senior citizens working under the Caloocan City Public Safety and Traffic Management Department (PSTMD), De Jesus said that they are deployed in morning shifts to avoid the extreme heat.

Since 1 March, the Caloocan City PSTMD has recorded one case of dizziness among its enforcers.

De Jesus said that in case of hospitalization, the PSTMD will also assist with hospital bills.

Starting Friday, 7 March, the Malabon City Public Safety and Traffic Management Office will implement a 30-minute heat stroke break policy for its field personnel, including traffic enforcers and motorcycle units.

In a Viber message, Malabon City Public Safety and Traffic Management Office (PSTMO) PCol. Reynaldo Medina Jr. said that field personnel will receive an additional 15-minute break if the heat index in the city reaches a 40°C heat index.

“We are also urging other offices to implement the same break to ensure their health and safety amidst the immense heat,” the Malabon LGU said.

Hotter temperatures are expected in the country in the coming weeks as the dry season begins.