Several local government units in Cebu suspended face-to-face classes on Wednesday, Sept. 2, as haze from forest fires in Indonesia pushed air quality in parts of the region to the “acutely unhealthy” level.
Cebu City, Talisay City, Minglanilla, Carcar City and Lapu-Lapu City announced class suspensions, with the coverage varying by locality and school type.
Cebu City, Minglanilla and Lapu-Lapu City suspended face-to-face classes at all levels in public and private schools.
Talisay City suspended classes in all public schools, while private schools and Talisay City College were allowed to decide whether to shift away from face-to-face classes.
In Carcar City, the suspension covers all levels in public schools and Carcar City College. Private schools were likewise given discretion.
The announcements came as the Environmental Management Bureau Region 7 (EMB 7) recorded an AQI of 208 at 11 a.m. Wednesday, placing air quality in the “acutely unhealthy” category.
EMB 7 said the haze over Metro Cebu was primarily caused by transboundary smoke and pollutants from forest fires in Indonesia, with the southwest monsoon, or Habagat, carrying the pollutants toward the Philippines.
With air quality at the current level, authorities advised residents to reduce exposure to the haze and limit strenuous outdoor activities.
The public was also advised to stay indoors when possible, postpone unnecessary trips and wear a well-fitting N95 or equivalent mask when going outside in areas affected by visible haze.
Children, older adults, pregnant women and people with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions were urged to take additional precautions.
Authorities also advised residents to limit unnecessary motor vehicle use and continue monitoring official air quality advisories from EMB 7 and other government agencies.
The Department of Health (DOH) separately urged residents to avoid strenuous outdoor activities and use masks when going outside.
Outdoor workers were advised to take regular breaks indoors and protect themselves from prolonged exposure. Families were also reminded to keep necessary medicines available, particularly for those with existing respiratory conditions.
Motorists were urged to exercise caution because haze may reduce visibility on roads.
Residents needing medical assistance may visit health centers and YAKAP Clinics for consultation, risk screening, laboratory services and free medicines for asthma or mild-to-moderate pneumonia.
For emergencies, the public may call 911.
Photo courtesy of Cebu City PIO
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