Tacloban air quality ‘unhealthy for sensitive groups’

TACLOBAN CITY — Air quality in Tacloban remained generally satisfactory for coarse particles but showed elevated levels of fine particulate matter on Wednesday, as haze associated with forest fires in Indonesia continued to affect parts of the Philippines.

The Environmental Management Bureau Region 8 (EMB-8) reported a slight increase in particulate matter levels during the noon-to-1 p.m. monitoring period at the Tacloban Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Station on Sept. 2.

The station recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 48 for PM10, or coarse particles, which falls under the “good” category. At this level, air pollution poses little or no risk to the general public.

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READ: Haze continues to blanket Bohol; air quality becomes ‘acutely unhealthy’

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However, PM2.5, or fine particles, registered an AQI of 108, placing air quality in the “unhealthy for sensitive groups” category.

The classification means people who are particularly sensitive to air pollution, including those with respiratory conditions such as asthma, may be more vulnerable to health effects and are advised to limit prolonged or strenuous outdoor activities.

PM2.5 is of particular concern because these fine particles can penetrate deep into the respiratory system.

The latest monitoring comes as transboundary haze from forest fires in Kalimantan, Indonesia, has reached parts of Luzon and the Visayas. Environment and health authorities have intensified monitoring as prevailing winds associated with the southwest monsoon have carried smoke and pollutants toward the Philippines.

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The EMB has emphasized that air quality conditions can vary depending on wind patterns, rainfall and the movement of the haze.

EMB Region 8 said it will continue round-the-clock surveillance of air quality parameters to track changes in pollution levels and provide timely information to the public.

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Residents, particularly those belonging to sensitive groups, are encouraged to stay updated on official air quality advisories and take precautions when pollution levels rise.

The latest reading underscores the importance of monitoring PM2.5 levels even when overall air quality appears acceptable, as fine particles can pose health risks at lower concentrations than larger particulate matter. /das