Public discouraged from bringing children, elderly, pregnant women to NAIA due to heat

Public discouraged from bringing children, elderly, pregnant women to NAIA due to heat

MANILA, Philippines: The Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) called on the public not to bring children, elderly, pregnant women and those with medical conditions to the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) for welcome and send-offs of relatives and friends amid the high heat index.

In its advisory, the MIAA cited recent data indicating a significant rise in temperatures in the National Capital Region (NCR), with 42 C recorded on April 9, 2024 from 39 C to 40 C between April 6 and 8.

“Given the current weather conditions, we urge everyone to minimize non-essential visits, particularly with vulnerable family members,” said MIAA General Manager Eric Ines.

“We respect that it has become a tradition for our kababayans to send off and welcome their relatives and friends at the airport, but the safety and well-being of everyone at our terminals is paramount,” Ines said.

He said he has instructed all operational departments to intensify efforts in assisting and overseeing passengers who may experience medical emergencies due to the heat.

“These measures are integral to MIAA’s comprehensive strategy to ensure a secure and comfortable environment for all visitors at NAIA during these extreme weather conditions,” Ines said.

According to the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa), the heat index will remain dangerously high. These elevated temperature readings approach thresholds that increase the probability of heat-related illnesses, such as heat stroke and heat exhaustion.