The high heat index gripping the Philippines has claimed the lives of two traffic enforcers in Iloilo, raising alarm over the increasingly deadly effects of extreme temperatures on frontline workers.

This year, Lester Paul Duran and John Tulio Jr. — both veteran traffic enforcers — succumbed to heat-related illnesses believed to have been caused or triggered by the scorching heat while on duty. Duran, who served for six years, died on 23 February, while Tulio, a traffic enforcer for 37 years, passed away on 7 April. Both suffered fatal strokes after long exposure to high temperatures.

In response, the Iloilo City Traffic and Transportation Management Office (ICTTMO) — also known as the Public Order and Safety Management Office (POSMO) — has rolled out stronger safety protocols to protect personnel from the dangerous heat. 

Among them is a mandatory “Heatstroke Break” from 9 AM to 3 PM, during which traffic enforcers are required to stay in shaded or cooler areas within their assigned beats while remaining visible to the public.

Uldarico Garbanzos, head of ICTTMO, in an interview Monday said that enforcers should only return to the center of the streets when absolutely necessary, such as during accidents or heavy traffic. 

Garbanzos urged the public to understand if they do not see traffic enforcers directly under the sun during these hours. 

The office is also encouraging enforcers with pre-existing health conditions or those on maintenance medication to request reassignment to less strenuous shifts, especially in the afternoon, to minimize prolonged sun exposure.

“There will be a realignment of personnel again to counter the high heat index we are experiencing here,” Garbanzos added.

One of the fallen enforcers was posthumously honored with a certificate of commendation during the city’s flag-raising ceremony. Garbanzos also invited immediate family members of the deceased to apply for possible employment as replacements.

The heatstroke break policy will remain in effect until the start of the monsoon season. In addition to the adjusted work protocol, ICTTMO has advised all its personnel to stay hydrated, avoid direct sunlight, and promptly report early symptoms of heat exhaustion such as dizziness or nausea.

Health experts continue to warn that exposure to temperatures above 40°C can overwhelm the body’s cooling systems, posing serious risks to those working outdoors.