Climate change group warns public of heat waves, water shortage

THE Commission on Climate Change (CCC) on Monday warned the public to prepare for increasing heat waves in the coming months that could cause drought and water shortages despite rains and localized thunderstorms.

In a statement, CCC Commissioner Albert dela Cruz Sr. said dry spells would come despite heavy rains drenching parts of the country.

Citing data from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), dela Cruz said the state weather bureau has declared the occurrence of El Niño in the Tropical Pacific after the Oceanic Niño Index recorded 0.5°C in April, May, and June.

Apayao, Cagayan and Kalinga are already experiencing drought based on the 60 percent reduction in the expected rainfall in these areas. Dry conditions were also experienced in Isabela and Tarlac.

Dela Cruz also cautioned the public over prolonged rainfall and eventual flash floods that could disrupt daily routines and affect the prices of prime commodities.

Arroyo, Robes named Central Luzon’s best legislators

By Maricel V. Cruz

REP. Florida Robes of San Jose del Monte City and Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo have been cited for their outstanding legislative performance and constituent service.

A survey conducted by “Boses ng Bayan” by the RP Mission and Development Foundation Inc.(RPMD) named the two legislators “best-performing legislators” in Central Luzon.

Sharing the top rung with Arroyo and Robes is Rep. Jefferson Khonghun of Zambales.

According to RPMD, the three members of the House of Representatives from the Central Luzon Region have undergone .meticulous evaluations as part of the independent, non-commissioned survey of some members of Congress.”

RPMD Executive Director Dr. Paul Martinez revealed that Robes, Arroyo, and Khonghun of Zambales had achieved statistically tied ratings.

With respective scores of 90.3 percent, 89.7 percent, and 89.5 percent, the lawmakers are collectively recognized as the top-performing legislators in the Central Luzon Region.

Reps. Aurelio Gonzales Jr. of Pampanga, Linabelle Ruth Villarica of Bulacan, and Rommel Rico Angara of Aurora were grouped in the second position with scores of 87.6 percent 87.3 percent, and 87.1 percent, respectively.

Reps. Mikaela Angela Suansing of Nueva Ecija and Lorna Silverio of Bulacan shared third place with scores of 85.9 percent and 85.2 percent, respectively.