ILOILO — Air quality across the Metro Iloilo Airshed has remained within “good to fair” levels despite the ongoing extreme heat and rising environmental concerns in Western Visayas.
Data from the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) showed that all four ambient air quality monitoring stations in Iloilo City and nearby towns recorded acceptable Air Quality Index (AQI) levels as of Wednesday, May 20 — indicating that pollution concentrations remain generally safe for the public.
“Pollutant levels are generally acceptable,” EMB Region 6 said in an advisory.
Among the four monitoring stations, the Garden of Love Quality Monitoring Station, San Miguel Station, and Oton Station all registered “Good” air quality levels, while the Pavia Station recorded a “Fair” AQI rating.
Based on continuous monitoring activities, EMB-6 noted that Metro Iloilo’s air quality has consistently remained under the “good to fair” category since the start of May 2026.
“Good” air quality means pollution levels are “satisfactory” and pose “little to no risk,” while “Fair” air quality is still considered acceptable although “a few hypersensitive individuals may experience discomfort.”
Despite the favorable readings, EMB-6 warned that vulnerable groups — including children, senior citizens, and individuals with respiratory illnesses — should still minimize exposure to outdoor pollution.
“While air quality is generally within acceptable standards, individuals who are unusually sensitive to air pollution (such as children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions) are advised to take precautionary measures to reduce exposure,” EMB-6 stressed.
The agency warned that air quality conditions may rapidly change depending on pollution sources and weather conditions.
EMB-6 assured the public it “remains committed to providing timely updates and will issue further advisories as necessary.”/PN
