Manila: Local chief executives in Bicol provinces have advised the public to take precautionary measures as elevated levels of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and haze persist in parts of the region. On Thursday, Camarines Sur Governor Luis Raymund Villafuerte, who chairs the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC), advised residents to limit prolonged or strenuous outdoor activities while PM2.5 levels remain elevated.
According to Philippines News Agency, children, older persons, pregnant women, and individuals with existing respiratory or cardiovascular conditions were urged to take extra precautions and minimize unnecessary outdoor exposure. Those who need to stay outdoors for extended periods were advised to consider using a well-fitting mask, particularly in areas with visible dust, smoke, or other particulate emissions. Residents were also encouraged, where practical, to keep doors and windows closed when outdoor air conditions are poor and avoid activities that could introduce additional particulate matter indoors.
The PDRRMC likewise reminded the public to avoid the open burning of garbage, leaves, agricultural residues, and other materials, as well as unnecessary exposure to smoke, dust, and vehicle exhaust. Schools, workplaces, and event organizers were encouraged to consider modifying, postponing, or relocating strenuous outdoor activities when PM2.5 levels remain at "Very Unhealthy" levels. Persons experiencing difficulty breathing, chest discomfort, persistent coughing, wheezing, or other concerning symptoms were advised to seek appropriate medical attention.
The PDRRMC also directed local government units (LGUs) to continuously monitor air quality and haze within their respective areas of responsibility and disseminate verified information through official communication channels. City and municipal environment and natural resources offices, in coordination with monitoring stations and concerned national government agencies, are expected to provide relevant updates to local chief executives and local DRRM councils. Municipal and city health offices are also encouraged to coordinate with barangays, schools, and health facilities to strengthen information dissemination and monitor respiratory complaints and other health concerns potentially associated with poor air quality.
The PDRRMC urged all concerned LDRRMCs and partner agencies to maintain heightened preparedness and remain alert, particularly in case of worsening air quality, persistent or widespread haze, reduced visibility, or emerging health concerns. The latest readings from the Continuous Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Stations in Naga City and Pili as of Wednesday showed PM2.5 levels ranging from "Very Unhealthy" to "Acutely Unhealthy," while PM10 remained within the "Fair" category. At the monitoring station at the Ateneo de Naga University, the PM2.5 Air Quality Index (AQI) readings ranged from 190 to 200, classified as "Very Unhealthy," while PM10 readings were at 54 to 56 AQI, classified as "Fair."
At the Central Bicol State University of Agriculture in Pili, PM2.5 readings ranged from 212 to 221 AQI, classified as "Acutely Unhealthy," while PM10 readings remained at 60 to 61 AQI, also within the "Fair" category. Meanwhile, in Albay, Governor Noel Rosal issued a preparedness advisory through the Albay PDRRM Office and Albay Public Safety Emergency Management Office, urging the public and local authorities to take precautionary measures amid the observed haze. Under the advisory, local authorities were directed to continuously monitor visibility and air quality parameters and ensure that rural health units are prepared to respond to a possible increase in respiratory-related consultations.
Rosal also called for the identification, mapping, and monitoring of vulnerable individuals, including children, older persons, and those with asthma or cardiovascular conditions. The public was also advised to keep windows and doors closed and, where necessary, use damp cloths to seal gaps and drafts under doors. Those who need to go outdoors in areas with visible haze were advised to wear a well-fitting N95 mask. Persons experiencing difficulty breathing, severe coughing, or eye irritation were urged to seek immediate medical attention at the nearest clinic or health facility. The public in both provinces was encouraged to remain alert and rely on official government updates and advisories as air quality monitoring and the haze situation continue.
