Haze continues to affect Metro Cebu

Local

AS HAZE continued to envelop Metro Cebu on Monday, April 20, the Cebu Provincial Government activated emergency response measures with Gov. Pamela Baricuatro urging national agencies to provide regular updates and guidance to reduce health risks.

Baricuatro ordered the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to closely monitor and report air quality levels and to coordinate with the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) and the Department of Health (DOH) for timely advisories and recommendations.

Health experts reinforced the warning, highlighting heightened risks for vulnerable groups.

Responders also demonstrated life-saving techniques during recent emergency preparedness activities, including the SAGIP-CPR program conducted for students.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources–Environmental Management Bureau in Central Visayas (DENR-EMB 7) recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 177 at the Talisay City station as of 8 a.m. on April 20.

This reflected a decline from 199 on April 19, although air quality remained under the “Very Unhealthy” category.

Metro Cebu has faced a haze since April 17, with monitoring data showing elevated fine particulate matter (PM2.5) in Talisay City.

Authorities noted that despite the slight improvement in AQI, conditions stayed critical. Toledo City reported “Good” air quality during the same period.

Air pollution peaked on Sunday, April 19, when AQI hit 199 and shifted conditions from “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” to “Very Unhealthy.”

Environmental officials linked the buildup to stagnant atmospheric conditions caused by very hot weather and high-pressure systems that trapped emissions near the ground.

Lack of wind dispersion allowed smoke, vehicle emissions, and dust to accumulate.

Local sources, including road dust, vehicle pollution, and fires in areas such as the South Road Properties and Barangay Pahina Central, further intensified the haze.

Authorities warned that current air quality levels now threaten the entire population.

Residents may experience throat irritation, coughing, or shortness of breath, while children, pregnant women, older adults, and people with asthma or heart and lung conditions face higher risks of respiratory distress.

Even with improving figures, PM2.5 levels continue to pose significant health risks.

The DENR-EMB 7 urged residents to stay indoors, keep windows and doors closed, and run air conditioning in “recirculate” mode to block outside air.

The bureau also advised the public to avoid outdoor activities such as jogging, sports, and strenuous labor, warning that PM2.5 particles can penetrate deep into the lungs and increase health risks with continued exposure.

Officials said cloth and surgical masks do not provide adequate protection for PM2.5 exposure and recommended N95 or KN95 masks for those who must go outside.(MyTVCebu)