Air quality across Metro Cebu remained within the “good” category on Friday despite volcanic emissions from Mt. Kanlaon’s recent eruption, according to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources–Environmental Management Bureau (DENR-EMB) in Central Visayas.
However, the agency warned residents to remain cautious as volcanic gases carried by prevailing winds may combine with rainfall and produce acid rain.
DENR-EMB said monitoring stations under the Continuous Ambient Air Quality Monitoring System (CAAQMS) recorded low levels of particulate matter as of 3 p.m. on July 10, a day after Mt. Kanlaon in Negros Island recorded a moderate explosive eruption.
The Talisay City monitoring station recorded PM2.5 levels at 18.2 micrograms per cubic meter (µg/m³), equivalent to an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 36, while PM10 levels reached 27.0 µg/m³ with an AQI of 25. Both measurements remained under the “Good” category.
Another monitoring station identified as TVI posted lower readings, with PM2.5 at 4.4 µg/m³ (AQI 9) and PM10 at 13.0 µg/m³ (AQI 12), also classified as “Good.”
The bureau said the results showed that airborne particulate pollution remained within acceptable levels despite volcanic emissions affecting parts of Central Visayas.
DENR-EMB, however, reminded the public that good air quality does not eliminate possible risks from volcanic gases.
Based on weather data from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), south-southwest winds continue to carry sulfur dioxide (SO₂) emitted by Mt. Kanlaon toward parts of the region.
The agency said sulfur dioxide may mix with rainwater and form acid rain, which could cause skin irritation, affect crops and vegetation, and damage exposed metal surfaces such as roofs and vehicles.
Residents were advised to avoid unnecessary exposure to rain and to wash their skin and hair with clean water if they get exposed.
DENR-EMB also recommended covering open water sources, including containers, rain barrels, and wells, to prevent possible contamination from volcanic materials.
Households were further advised to keep windows and doors closed to reduce exposure to remaining ash particles. Residents who need to go outside were encouraged to wear N95 or KN95 masks and protective eyewear.
The agency also advised plant owners to protect potted plants from rainfall or wash ash deposits from leaves using clean water. Residents were reminded to remove ash buildup from roofs safely before it hardens.
Meanwhile, Cebu provincial authorities continued monitoring the effects of the July 9 eruption and the ashfall reported in several areas.
Governor Pamela Baricuatro, together with Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) focal person Retired Col. Dennis Pastor and members of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC), provided updates on the province’s response efforts on Friday.
Pastor presented updates from the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs), including areas affected by ashfall, air quality monitoring, class suspensions, travel advisories, and other response measures.
Representatives from the Philippine National Police, Provincial Health Office, Provincial Veterinary Office, and Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office also reported interventions carried out in affected local government units.
As of 10:30 a.m. Friday, the Provincial Health Office recorded two ashfall-related medical consultations or admissions among the province’s 16 Capitol-run hospitals—one case each in Barili and Pinamungajan.
Authorities said monitoring of air quality, volcanic activity, and possible health effects will continue while urging residents to rely on advisories from DENR-EMB, PAGASA, Phivolcs, and local disaster management offices.
Photo courtesy of Panay News
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