MANILA — Air quality in several parts of Metro Manila reached “acutely unhealthy” levels on Monday evening, with Parañaque and Las Piñas recording the highest Air Quality Index (AQI) readings as haze linked to forest fires in Indonesia continued to affect the region.
Regional air quality monitoring data from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources–Environmental Management Bureau (DENR-EMB) showed that Parañaque’s Don Bosco area recorded an AQI of 270 as of 7 p.m. on August 31, followed by Las Piñas at 205. Both readings were classified as “Acutely Unhealthy.”
Most other monitored areas in the capital region registered “Very Unhealthy” air quality.
Indonesia forest-fire smoke reaches Philippines, may persist for days, UP scientist says
Manila recorded an AQI of 198, followed by Malabon at 186; Valenzuela and Quezon City-Ateneo at 179 each; Taguig-TUP at 176; Marikina-Parang at 175; San Juan at 173; Muntinlupa-Filinvest City at 171; Pasay at 168; and Mandaluyong at 162.
The AQI readings are based on concentrations of fine particulate matter, or PM2.5, in the air.
These tiny particles can penetrate deep into the respiratory system and pose greater risks to vulnerable groups.
Meanwhile, Pateros recorded an AQI of 133, Navotas 117 and Makati 108, all classified as “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups.” Quezon City-SMPH Commonwealth posted the lowest reading among the monitored areas at 87, classified as “Fair.”
SMOKE FROM INDONESIA
The deteriorating air quality came as smoke from forest fires in Kalimantan, Indonesia, reached Metro Manila and other parts of the Philippines.
Dr. Gerry Bagtasa, an atmospheric physicist and professor of meteorology at the University of the Philippines Institute of Environmental Science and Meteorology, said satellite imagery showed active fires in western and southern Kalimantan in recent days.
According to Bagtasa, an unusual wind pattern carried smoke from the Indonesian island toward the Philippines, allowing pollutants to cross the equator and reach the country.
The prevailing winds helped transport the smoke toward the Philippines, contributing to the hazy conditions observed across Metro Manila.
READ: Indonesia forest-fire smoke reaches Philippines, may persist for days, UP scientist says
QUEZON CITY ISSUES AIR QUALITY ADVISORY
Amid the deteriorating air conditions, the Quezon City government issued an Air Quality Advisory urging residents, particularly those considered vulnerable, to take precautions.
The city government advised children, senior citizens, pregnant women, and people with existing lung or heart conditions to wear face masks, particularly when exposure to outdoor air is unavoidable.
Residents were also advised to remain indoors as much as possible while air quality remains poor.
For emergency concerns, residents may contact the Quezon City government’s Helpline 122.