The Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) has urged friends and family members of departing and arriving passengers to reconsider bringing vulnerable individuals to the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) for farewells and greetings amid the recent high heat index in Metro Manila.
According to MIAA General Manager Eric C. Ines, the advisory aims to ensure the well-being of airport users during the ongoing heatwave. “Given the current weather conditions, we urge everyone to minimize non-essential visits, particularly with vulnerable family members,” Ines stated.
The MIAA’s concern stems from recent incidents involving individuals experiencing heat-related illnesses at NAIA terminals. One case involved an elderly individual who required urgent medical care after experiencing dizziness while at the airport to welcome relatives.
Metro Manila has recorded temperatures as high as 42°C on April 9, with PAGASA forecasting the heat index to reach 41°C on April 13. These elevated temperatures increase the risk of heat-related illnesses, such as heat stroke and heat exhaustion, particularly for vulnerable groups like children, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with medical conditions.
“We respect that it has become a tradition for our kababayans to send-off and welcome in bulk groups to their relatives at the airport, but the safety and well-being of everyone at our terminals is paramount,” Ines explained.
To mitigate potential medical emergencies, MIAA has instructed all operational departments to intensify efforts in assisting and overseeing passengers who may experience heat-related issues.
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