The heat index in Roxas City in the Province of Capiz reached 42 degrees Celsius on March 13, 2024 deemed as one of the highest recorded temperatures in the entire country, according to state weather bureau Pagasa.

Residents who have transactions in government offices were observed to have arrived earlier than usual. But even in the early morning, they have to endure the humid air.

The sweltering heat affects construction workers and tricycle drivers more because of the nature of their jobs.

Boy, a tricycle driver, said he would go home hours to high noon to avoid the scorching sun. He would get out of the house and resume ferrying passengers at around 2 p.m.

“Ang ginagawa ko, uuwi ako ng bahay, magpapahinga. Bandang alas-2 (hapon) lalabas na naman hanggang alas-4 para ang katawan ay hindi ma-expose sa init ng araw,” Boy said.

As for Laddy, a fish vendor, a wet towel soothes her from the stifling heat.

“Binabasa ko ang towel at inilalagay sa aking ulo,” Laddy said.

The public is reminded constantly to be hydrated well and to avoid prolonged exposure to the heat of the sun.