Indonesian Haze Worsens Metro Manila Air Quality to Dangerous Levels

SMOKE AND HAZE from forest fires in Kalimantan, Indonesia pushed air quality in parts of Metro Manila to very unhealthy and acutely unhealthy levels on Tuesday, prompting government agencies to advise residents to limit outdoor activities and wear masks. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Environmental Management Bureau said transboundary haze was affecting the National Capital Region, Central Luzon, Calabarzon and Mimaropa. It said prevailing winds likely carried smoke from fires in Kalimantan into the Philippines. Air quality monitoring data as of noon showed acutely unhealthy conditions in several Metro Manila areas, including Manila, Mandaluyong, Marikina, Muntinlupa, Parañaque, San Juan, Taguig and Valenzuela. Very unhealthy air quality was recorded in Makati, Navotas and Pateros. The Quezon City government also issued an Alert Level 3 advisory after data from its network of air sensors showed very unhealthy to acutely unhealthy conditions across parts of the city. The Department of Health warned that exposure to the haze could trigger breathing difficulties, coughing, chest pain, eye irritation and asthma attacks. It urged residents, particularly children, older people and those with respiratory conditions, to wear masks and avoid prolonged exposure outdoors. The agency said smoke from the Indonesian fires had reached parts of Luzon and the Visayas due to southwest monsoon winds. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration said Tropical Cyclone Pilandok (international name: Krovanh) was enhancing the southwest monsoon despite posing no direct threat to land, contributing to weather conditions that allowed the haze to spread. Some areas outside Metro Manila reported better conditions. Antipolo City and parts of Zambales recorded fair to good air quality readings. Authorities said monitoring would continue as weather systems inside and outside the Philippine area of responsibility could affect air quality and rainfall patterns in the coming days. — Erika Mae P. Sinaking