A transport group is looking into the death of three traditional jeepney drivers in Pangasinan and is looking at the possibility that they died due to heat stroke. 

According to the One Pangasinan Transport Federation, two of the deceased are from Calasiao while one is from Eastern Pangasinan.

As investigation continues, the group continues to monitor its members who hit the streets despite the scorching heat. 

Federation president Bernard Tuliao advised his members to rest and to not push themselves beyond what they can manage to avoid problems.

“Lagi ko sinasabi na talagang mainit ang panahon, ngayong oras na ito. Magpahinga lang sila. Huwag nilang ipilit kung hindi kaya para iwas din trouble,” Tuliao said.

According to the Dagupan City Health Office, senior citizens and workers who are constantly exposed to the heat are often affected by heat stroke.

“Yung mga nasa labas na traffic aides natin, policemen, delivery rider, [at] jeepney driver. So dapat may baon silang tubig… dapat handa sila — dapat may tubig,” Dr. Ophelia Rivera, Dagupan City Health Officer, said.

Some senior citizens take extra precautions to avoid heat stroke, while construction workers, who are exposed to the sun for long periods, ensure they drink plenty of water and take breaks.

“Ingat[an] lang [ang] katawan. Maligo ka, everyday ligo, ako two times in the morning,” Rosalinda Arcelona, a resident, said.

“Uminom lagi ng tubig, minsan kailangan na magpahinga ng konti para hindi tayo ma-heat stroke,” Ariel Cerezo, a construction worker, said.

Around 30 areas in the country are under the danger category on May 6, 2024 due to the high heat index, ranging from 42 to 47 degrees Celsius.

These locations include areas in Northern and Central Luzon:

Aparri, Cagayan,
Laoag City,
Bacnotan, La Union,
Tuguegarao City, Cagayan,
Echague, Isabela,
Sinait, Ilocos Sur,
Batac City, Ilocos Norte,
Baler, Aurora,
Casiguran, Aurora,
Olongapo City; and,
Dagupan City,