DENR: Ateneo de Zamboanga air quality now ‘very unhealthy’
MANILA, Philippines — Air quality at Ateneo de Zamboanga University remained hazardous on Wednesday, with pollution levels falling from “emergency” to “very unhealthy.”
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Environmental Management Bureau (DENR-EMB) reported the change in its 5 p.m. advisory on Wednesday, Oct. 14.
The agency said the particulate matter (PM) 2.5 concentration at its Ateneo de Zamboanga University Tumaga station in Zamboanga City registered an air quality index (AQI) of 151 to 200, or “very unhealthy” levels.
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PM2.5 refers to fine particulate matter measuring 2.5 micrometers or less in diameter.
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The area reached emergency levels at noon on Wednesday, with its AQI ranging from 301 to 501. At this level, air pollution may pose serious health concerns to the public.
READ: Indonesia fire-linked haze affects Metro Manila air quality
Meanwhile, Talisay City in Central Visayas was also placed under “very unhealthy” levels.
The agency also recorded “unhealthy for sensitive groups” levels, indicating an AQI of 101 to 150, in the following areas:
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- Western Mindanao State University, San Ramon, Talisayan, Zamboanga City
- Meycauayan City in the Air Quality Monitoring Station
- Brgy. Culaman, Malita, Davao Occidental
The agency said the poor air quality was possibly associated with smoke and transboundary haze from ongoing fires in Kalimantan, Indonesia. Prevailing winds may have carried the haze toward the country.
The agency advised the public in affected areas to take precautions and minimize prolonged outdoor activities.
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“Wear a well-fitting mask, preferably an N95 or equivalent, when going outdoors in areas with noticeable haze; and stay updated through official advisories and air quality information from the DENR-EMB and other concerned government agencies,” it added. /mcm
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