Air quality in Metro Cebu worsened Wednesday, Sept. 2, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching 215 by mid-afternoon, placing conditions at the “acutely unhealthy” level.
The Environmental Management Bureau Region 7 (EMB 7) recorded an AQI of 203 at 6 a.m., 208 at 11 a.m. and 215 at 3 p.m., showing a steady deterioration throughout the day.
EMB 7 continued monitoring ambient air quality to determine the extent of the haze and its possible health effects across the region.
Authorities advised residents to limit outdoor exertion, particularly those with heart or respiratory conditions, including asthma. They also discouraged unnecessary trips and said restrictions on motor vehicle use and some industrial activities may be considered depending on conditions.
The worsening air quality prompted several local governments to suspend face-to-face classes in public schools on Thursday, Sept. 3.
Talisay City Mayor Samsam Gullas announced the suspension of classes in all public schools in the city following coordination with the Department of Education and the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office.
“Tomorrow (September 3), however, after coordination with our DepEd and CDRRMO, we will be suspending face to face classes in ALL PUBLIC SCHOOLS in Talisay City,” Gullas said.
Gullas said students who were already in school Wednesday would not be dismissed early because doing so could disrupt parents and guardians who were still at work or attending to other responsibilities. He instead urged students to remain indoors and avoid unnecessary outdoor activities.
Carcar City and Minglanilla also suspended face-to-face classes in all public schools Thursday because of the “acutely unhealthy” air quality monitored by DENR-EMB 7.
Private schools in both cities were allowed to decide whether to suspend classes, with school administrators urged to consider the safety of students and personnel.
Cebu Gov. Pamela Baricuatro said the provincial government is monitoring the situation through the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office and other concerned agencies.
“I have been advised by our PDRRMO, so we’re really monitoring it,” Baricuatro said.
She urged people with respiratory problems to take precautions, including wearing masks when going outdoors.
“Katong mga senior or naay respiratory ailments magbinantayon lang jud ta karong panahona,” Baricuatro said.
Environmental authorities have traced the haze affecting Central Visayas to forest fires in Kalimantan, Indonesia. Smoke and fine particulate matter, including PM2.5, have been carried toward the Philippines by the southwest monsoon, or Habagat.
The haze may persist while the fires remain active and prevailing winds continue to transport smoke toward the Philippines.
Photo courtesy of Mandaue City Public Affairs Office
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