4 ways Filipinos can stay healthy and protected this season

　　The Philippines continues to face excessively hot weather, with dozens of areas logging heat  indices past 40ºC. As temperatures remain elevated, many Filipinos are taking advantage of the  season to travel, enjoy outdoor activities, and spend time with family and friends. However, the  warm months bring increased health risks, including heat-related illnesses, making it important to  stay mindful of both physical well-being and personal safety. 

　　Here are four practical ways to stay safe and well during this season. 

　　1. Stay out of the heat and be aware of your surroundings. With several parts of the Philippines  reaching “danger” temperature levels (42ºC to 51ºC)， dehydration and heat exhaustion can  quickly become serious concerns. Health authorities warn that prolonged exposure to extreme  heat may lead to symptoms such as dizziness, fatigue, headaches, and muscle cramps, and in  several cases, heat stroke, a life-threatening condition that occurs when the body temperature  rises about 40°C. In 2023, the Philippines recorded 513 heat-related illness cases, one of the  highest recent totals reported by health authorities. 1 

　　Drink water regularly, limit time under direct sunlight, and take breaks in shaded or air conditioned areas. If you plan to swim, never do so alone. Dizziness brought on by extreme heat  can increase the risk of drowning. Protect your skin by wearing protective clothing, applying  sunscreen, and using hats or umbrellas. Health experts also recommend limiting outdoor  exposure during peak sunlight hours, typically between 10 AM and 3 PM, when UV rays are  strongest. 

　　2. Keep your home cool. Managing indoor temperatures is just as important as staying safe  outdoors. Simple measures such as using window shutters to block direct sunlight can help  keep living spaces cooler. When using electric fans, note that they are most effective when the  ambient temperature is below 40°C. At higher temperatures, they may circulate hot air rather  than provide relief. For greater comfort, pairing an air conditioner set at around 27°C with a fan  

　　1 https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/904370/doh-logs-34-heat-related-illness-amid high-heat-index/story/

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　　can make a room feel up to 4°C cooler, helping reduce electricity consumption while  maintaining comfort. 

　　3. Protect infants and young children. Children, especially infants, are particularly vulnerable to  heat-related risks. Never leave a child in a parked vehicle, even briefly, as temperatures inside  can rise to dangerous levels within minutes. Dress infants and young children in cool, light,  loose-fitting clothing, and avoid covering infant strollers with blankets or covers that restrict  airflow. Be attentive to signs of heat distress such as excessive fussiness, flushed skin, or  unusual fatigue. 

　　4. Prevent mosquito-borne diseases. While mosquitoes are commonly associated with the  rainy season, the hot and dry months also create conditions for mosquito breeding. In areas  where water becomes scarce, many households store water in containers and uncovered  containers become prime breeding grounds for mosquitoes and the diseases they carry,  including dengue. Eliminate stagnant water in containers, plant pots, and drainage areas, and  ensure water storage containers are properly covered all the time. Use insect repellent and  wear protective clothing when outdoors to further reduce the risks of mosquito bites. 

　　Beyond practicing healthy habits, being prepared for unexpected medical expenses is another  important part of overall well-being. Health protection solutions can help individuals and families  manage the financial impact of illnesses or medical emergencies, giving them peace of mind as  they enjoy the season. 

　　To support Filipinos in safeguarding their health and finances this summer, Sun Life Grepa  Financial, Inc. (Sun Life Grepa) offers protection solutions designed to help individuals and families  stay prepared for unexpected medical needs. 

　　• Sun Grepa ProHeaIth: An affordable health protection plan designed specifically to cover  critical illnesses. It offers simplified application process and provides cash benefits to help  clients get through any stage of a critical illness, helping ease the financial burden that may  come with a serious illness.  

　　• Sun Grepa ICU Protect: A severity-based health insurance plan that helps ensure your  financial health is well-taken care of should any life-threatening conditions happen. It provides  financial assistance for intensive care unit (ICU) confinement and additional cash benefit in  case diagnosed with a covered critical illness or surgery, helping families manage the  significant expenses that can arise during critical medical situations. 

　　• Sun Grepa First Aid Plus: A health protection plan that provides financial support in case of  hospitalization or surgery, helping individuals and families manage unexpected medical costs  that may arise from health emergencies. 

　　Consult a Sun Life Grepa advisor or visit www.sunlifegrepa.com#mce_temp_url# to learn more about Sun  Life Grepa’s health protection products。