Residents of Barangay Poblacion, Mapandan, Pangasinan now enjoy the comfort of an air-conditioned waiting shed, the first of its kind in the province, aimed at providing relief during hot weather.

Senior citizens, pregnant women, and persons with disabilities (PWDs) are the priority users of the facility.

“Malaking tulong po sa amin kasi nga senior citizen, mahina na katawan namin. Hindi ko na kayang maghintay sa labas kasi ang init,” Dina Natnat, president of the Mapandan Federation of Senior Citizen’s Association, said.

Cassophea McFarlane, a student from Dagupan, shared her experience using the shed while waiting for her ride home to Barangay Baloling.

“Sobrang init po. Para sa mga naghihintay ng sundo, dito po sila nag-i-stay po,” she said.

The waiting shed, which can accommodate up to 20 people, was built with a P500,000 budget from the town’s 20 percent development fund.

Plans for a second phase include installing solar panels worth an estimated P200,000 to P300,000 for sustainable energy use.

Mayor Karl Christian Vega said the project is important, especially after heatstroke incidents involving senior citizens during the summer.

“Ito na ‘yung pinaka-safe na area para ida-drop at magpapasundo sa parents, para safe sila,” Vega said.

Police authorities will oversee its security.

The waiting shed operates from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily and will close at night to prevent misuse.

The local government also plans to construct another air-conditioned shed in Barangay David later this 2025.

Authorities urge residents to use the facility responsibly to ensure it benefits the community for years to come.