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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider Visayas devider DepEd-NIR adopts strict heat safety precautions for regional meet

DepEd-NIR adopts strict heat safety precautions for regional meet

Published Mar 2, 2026 10:24 pm
BACOLOD CITY – As the heat index in the Negros Island Region (NIR) soared to 40 degrees Celsius on Monday, March 2, the Department of Education-NIR (DepEd-NIR) rolled out comprehensive safety measures to safeguard students, athletes, and technical personnel in the inaugural Negros Island Regional Athletic Association Meet (NIRAAM) 2026 hosted this year by the city government.
Although no major injuries or serious welfare issues were reported, the Philippine Red Cross Negros Occidental-Bacolod City Chapter provided prompt medical assistance to 25 individuals who experienced minor health concerns, including cases of hyperventilation during the opening ceremony at Panaad Park and Stadium in Barangay Mansilingan here on Sunday, March 1.
Almyr Caezar Dequiña, spokesperson of DepEd-NIR, said in a media interview, that advisories were immediately issued to inform coaches and athletes about the high heat index, enabling them to take necessary precautions. “We always prioritize the safety of the athletes,” Dequiña said.
He added that medical teams are continuously monitoring heat conditions and advising tournament directors, who have the authority to decide whether to proceed with games or implement schedule adjustments.
Given the risks posed by extreme heat, especially during outdoor events, tournament directors were instructed to start games earlier in the morning when feasible, suspend activities by 10 a.m., and resume at 2 p.m.
Authorities may also postpone matches upon recommendation of the medical team. A structured response plan has been established to manage similar situations in the future.
In a health advisory, organizers directed athletes, coaches, delegation officials, technical officials, and event organizers to strictly observe heat safety protocols.
Under a 40°C heat index, prolonged Sun exposure and intense physical exertion may result in heat cramps, heat exhaustion, or heat stroke.
Athletes were reminded to hydrate regularly before, during, and after competitions; immediately proceed to shaded or cooling areas after events; avoid unnecessary exposure to direct sunlight, particularly between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.; and promptly report symptoms such as dizziness, headache, muscle cramps, nausea, unusual fatigue, or rapid heartbeat.
“Performance must never come at the expense of health,” the advisory stressed.
Dequiña thanked medical teams who swiftly responded to those affected during the opening ceremony.
Coaches and delegation officials were reminded to strictly enforce hydration protocols, monitor athletes for early signs of heat-related illnesses, prevent overexertion during peak heat hours, and coordinate immediately with medical personnel if symptoms arise.

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