BACOLOD City — Air quality in Bacolod City and La Castellana deteriorated to unhealthy levels on September 3 as haze continued to affect parts of the Philippines, prompting the Environmental Management Bureau–Negros Island Region (EMB-NIR) to closely monitor air pollution across Negros Island.
In its air quality update issued on September 3, based on monitoring data as of 8 a.m., the EMB-NIR reported that several monitoring stations in the region recorded air quality ranging from “unhealthy for sensitive groups” to “very unhealthy,” with some areas reaching the “acute unhealthy” level.
The deteriorating air quality came as haze affected several areas in the country, with smoke and transboundary haze from ongoing fires in Kalimantan, Indonesia, being cited as a possible contributor.
The EMB-NIR, however, said the exact contribution of the Indonesian fires to local air quality remains under monitoring.
The bureau continues to track ambient air quality in Bacolod City, La Castellana and other areas in the Negros Island Region as conditions may change depending on weather, wind patterns and the movement of haze.
The reported air quality levels may pose increased health risks, particularly to sensitive and vulnerable individuals.
The EMB-NIR urged residents to take precautions while unhealthy air quality conditions persist, including wearing well-fitting masks when going outdoors and limiting outdoor activities, particularly strenuous physical activities.
Residents were also advised to stay indoors when necessary and monitor official air quality advisories for updates.
The bureau emphasized the importance of public awareness and vigilance as air quality conditions may fluctuate.
The EMB-NIR said it will continue monitoring ambient air quality throughout the Negros Island Region and issue further advisories as necessary./PN
