SC allows flexible work scheme for courts amid heat

Trial court judges and personnel are allowed to adopt a flexible working arrangement amid "dangerous heat indices" nationwide, according to the Supreme Court (SC).

- DAPHNE GALVEZ

Starting April 5 to May 31, working hours and court operations are from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., based on a circular issued by Court Administrator Raul Villanueva with authority from Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo.

Saturday duty in trial courts will be from 7:30 a.m. to 12 noon.

This can also apply on Sundays, official holidays, and special days when exceptional circumstances warrant, the circular noted.

This is to "prevent health complications that may be caused by the extreme heat and weather conditions." Meanwhile, field personnel of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority have also been given a "heat stroke break" every 30 minutes, starting March 15 to May 31, according to acting MMDA Chairman Romando Artes.

During this break, traffic enforcers and street sweepers may leave their posts to take shelter and drink water to prevent heat stroke.

There could be an additional 15-minute break once Manila's heat index reaches 40 degrees Celsius and above.

The heat index measures the temperature that a person feels, which is computed considering air temperature and humidity, according to the state weather bureau.

Due to the high temperatures and high heat index experienced nationwide, local government units and school heads have been given the authority to suspend classes.

Online classes

In Bulacan, three days of online classes have been implemented in private and public schools amid the rising heat index.

The rising temperature is expected to hit 39 to 41 degrees Celsius.