Air quality in parts of Metro Cebu worsened again on Thursday, April 23, as pollution levels rose back to “unhealthy for sensitive groups” in Talisay City just a day after a short-lived improvement.
Data from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources–Environmental Management Bureau in Central Visayas (DENR-EMB 7) showed an increase in fine particulate matter (PM2.5), reversing the “fair” air quality recorded on April 22.
The Talisay City monitoring station, which logged an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 98 the previous day, registered higher pollution levels Thursday as stagnant air conditions and continued emissions allowed particles to build up again.
EMB-7 said the fluctuation reflects unstable atmospheric conditions, where short-term improvements can quickly deteriorate without sustained wind or rainfall to disperse pollutants.
PM2.5 particles are among the most harmful air pollutants, small enough to reach deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream, posing higher risks to vulnerable groups.
Health advisories were raised again, with authorities urging caution for children, the elderly, and individuals with asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or heart conditions. They were advised to limit outdoor exposure and use N95 or KN95 masks when necessary.
For the general public, EMB-7 said risks remain lower but possible, including throat irritation, coughing, and mild respiratory discomfort. Residents were advised to reduce strenuous outdoor activities while air conditions remain unstable.
The deterioration came just a day after clearer conditions were observed across Metro Cebu on April 22, following several days of haze that previously pushed air quality into “very unhealthy” levels.
Environmental officials earlier attributed the brief improvement to stronger winds and natural ventilation that helped disperse accumulated pollutants.
However, EMB-7 warned that emissions from vehicles, industrial activity, and localized sources can quickly accumulate again when air movement weakens.
Previous advisories also identified grass fires and urban fires as contributors to sudden spikes in PM2.5 levels.
During last week’s haze episode, Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival urged residents to take precautions.
“Stay indoors if possible, avoid outdoor activities, ug kung mogawas, magsul-ob gyud ug N95 or KN95 mask,” he said.
“Magtinabangay ta ug mag-amping. Taking care and taking action para sa Cebu City. Stay safe, Cebu City,” he added.
EMB-7 said it remains on alert and continues round-the-clock monitoring of air quality levels, with further updates expected as conditions change. (LLP)
Photo by Edward Charles Tinga, PBB Photographer
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