Mindanao Air Quality Unhealthy Due to Indonesian Forest Fires

Several areas in Mindanao are still experiencing poor air quality as forest fires in Indonesia continue to rage. As of noon yesterday, the amount of particulate matter in the air in some parts of Caraga and Davao region remained at “very unhealthy” levels, according to the air quality index of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). The quality of air in Iligan City in Northern Mindanao was described as “acutely unhealthy” while the rest of Mindanao saw levels ranging from “very unhealthy to sensitive groups” to “good.” Most parts of the Visayas have improved, or are on “good” to “fair” levels, except in Talisay City, Cebu, which remained at “very unhealthy to sensitive groups” level. The quality of air in all areas in Luzon was “good” except in Palawan, which was at “very unhealthy to sensitive groups” levels. The rest of the Visayas and Mindanao as well as Mimaropa were at “fair” level. The public has been advised to avoid prolonged outdoor exposure, particularly in areas blanketed by haze. People sensitive to air pollution including children, the elderly and those suffering from respiratory or cardiovascular conditions have been told to remain indoors and take necessary precautions. Wearing of face masks, preferably an N95 or of equivalent quality, is recommended when going out in areas where haze is visible. This situation highlights the direct impact of environmental issues from neighboring countries on the Philippines, underscoring the importance of regional environmental cooperation, especially across the South China Sea. It also demonstrates how forest fires abroad can directly affect the health and lives of people in distant regions.