Air quality improves

CEBU, Philippines —  While air quality in Metro Cebu has slightly improved, the hazy breeze remains present, with authorities classifying the current reading as “unhealthy for sensitive groups.”

As of 4 P.M. yesterday, September 6, the Environmental Management Bureau Region VII (EMB-7) monitoring station recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 127, classified as “unhealthy for sensitive groups.”

The classification means that people who are particularly sensitive to air pollution may experience health effects and are advised to take precautions, particularly when spending extended periods outdoors.

This latest monitoring shows a decrease from the AQI of 159 recorded at the same time a day earlier, Saturday, September 5.

Meanwhile, air quality in Barangay Cabitoonan, Toledo City, remained in the “good” category, with an AQI of 46 as of the same time.

EMB-7 said it continues to closely monitor local ambient air quality to assess the presence, extent, and potential health impacts of the reported haze across the region.

The public is encouraged to stay informed and regularly check official air quality updates and advisories from EMB-7.

The haze affecting Metro Cebu has been attributed to smoke from forest and land fires in Kalimantan, Indonesia. Prevailing winds associated with the southwest monsoon, or habagat, have carried smoke and fine particulate matter from the fires toward the Philippines.

The main pollutant of concern is PM2.5, or fine particulate matter measuring 2.5 micrometers or smaller. Because of their extremely small size, these particles can penetrate deep into the respiratory system and may pose health risks, particularly with prolonged exposure.

The hazy breeze was first monitored on September 1. In the following days, air quality continued to deteriorate, prompting several local executives in Cebu to suspend classes as transboundary haze pushed Metro Cebu deeper into the “acutely unhealthy” range.

EMB-7 continues to monitor ambient air quality in the region and has urged the public to regularly check official air quality advisories and follow health precautions while the haze persists. (CEBU NEWS)