Air quality in Central Visayas remained mostly safe during New Year celebrations, but experts warned sensitive individuals to take precautions in some areas.
The Environmental Management Bureau Central Visayas (EMB 7) reported that particulate matter levels in Toledo City stayed very low, classifying the air as Good and posing little to no health risk.
In contrast, Talisay City recorded higher fine particle (PM2.5) concentrations of 40 to 51 micrograms per cubic meter (µg/m³), classified as Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups.
Residents with respiratory conditions, such as asthma, were advised to limit prolonged outdoor activities.
Coarser particles (PM10) in Talisay ranged from 40 to 51 µg/m³ and were classified as Fair, generally acceptable for most people, though very sensitive individuals could experience minor irritation.
EMB 7 monitored air quality using Continuous Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Systems (CAAQMS) from midnight to 2:00 a.m., December 31, 2025, to January 1, 2026, in selected areas of Cebu, tracking real-time particulate matter during peak celebrations.
Fireworks and firecrackers can temporarily increase airborne particles, which is why such monitoring is important, especially for sensitive groups.
Particulate matter (PM) refers to tiny solid or liquid particles suspended in the air.
PM2.5 consists of fine particles that can reach deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream, while PM10 are coarser particles that may irritate the eyes, nose, and throat.
EMB 7 said its ongoing monitoring helps provide accurate information to guide the public during periods of temporary pollution increases.
The agency encouraged responsible celebrations, including minimizing smoke-producing activities, to protect both public health and the environment.
Photo from Jacq Hernandez
