Indonesian Smoke Reaches Occidental Mindoro

CALAPAN CITY, Oriental Mindoro — A thick haze has been observed in parts of Occidental Mindoro, including Calintaan town, as smoke from forest and land fires in Indonesia reached several areas of the Philippines, local disaster officials said. The Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) of Rizal town in Occidental Mindoro warned residents to take precautions against exposure to the haze. The haze is believed to be caused by smoke from widespread forest fires in Indonesia, carried by seasonal winds to the Philippines. The Philippines, being geographically close to Indonesia, is susceptible to transboundary air pollution, particularly during the transition from the rainy season to the dry season. The current haze poses potential health and daily life impacts on local residents, and authorities are closely monitoring the situation. Reduced visibility due to the haze also raises concerns about potential impacts on transportation. For individuals with respiratory conditions, worsening air pollution can increase health risks. The Philippine government is strengthening its air pollution monitoring systems and plans to provide information and implement measures as necessary. Source: Inquirer NewsInfo