The heat index in Dagupan City soared to 47 degrees Celsius on March 25, 2025, marking the highest recorded in the country this year so far, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).
With the dry season beginning officially, temperatures are expected to rise further in the coming days.
“’Yung high pressure sa part ng Pacific lumalakas kaya umiinit ang ating karagatan,” Engr. Jose Estrada, PAGASA-Dagupan Chief Meteorological Officer, said.
Due to the extreme heat, one city and 16 towns in Pangasinan suspended face-to-face classes on March 26.
The areas affected include:
- Dagupan City,
- Mangaldan,
- Calasiao,
- Mangatarem,
- Bugallon,
- Manaoag,
- San Manuel,
- Aguilar,
- Sual,
- Burgos,
- Anda,
- Urbiztondo,
- Malasiqui,
- Bayambang,
- Rosales,
- San Jacinto; and,
- San Quintin.
Schools have shifted to blended learning as students prepare for their final grading exams.
“Binigyan na namin sila ng modules, tuloy-tuloy ang monitoring sa kanila sa mga GC’s at kinukumusta sila ng mga teacher nila,” Renato Santillan, principal of West Central Elementary School 1, said.
Meanwhile, the Center for Health Development (CHD-1) is monitoring possible cases of heat-related illnesses closely such as heat stroke, heat exhaustion, and heat cramps.
CHD-1 Spokesperson Dr. Rheuel Bobis urged residents to avoid outdoor activities during peak hours.
“Panawagan po talaga natin ay limitahan natin ang ating paglabas sa ating kabahayan para sa mga physical activities or para sa ibang gawain from 10am to 3pm,” Bobis said.
No heat-related emergency cases have been reported in Region 1, as of March 26.
