Tacloban: The Environmental Management Bureau in Eastern Visayas (EMB-8) has warned people who are sensitive to air pollution to take precautions as haze continues to affect air quality in this city.

According to Philippines News Agency, in its Haze Update Bulletin No. 10, EMB-8 reported that the latest readings from the Tacloban Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Station, taken at noon Thursday, showed varying air-quality conditions for particulate matter (PM).

The Air Quality Index (AQI) for PM10, or coarse particulate matter, was recorded at 57, classified as 'Fair.' This indicates that air quality remains generally acceptable, although some people who are unusually sensitive to air pollution may experience health effects.

More concerning was the reading for PM2.5, or fine particulate matter, which registered an AQI of 128, classified as 'Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups.'

'People with respiratory conditions, including those with asthma, as well as others who are particularly sensitive to air pollution, are advised to limit outdoor activities and take precautions while the elevated PM2.5 levels persist,' the EMB-8 stated.

Sensitive individuals who must go outdoors are encouraged to stay alert to official air-quality advisories and reduce prolonged exposure to the haze.

The bureau said it will continue 24/7 monitoring of air-quality parameters and will issue succeeding updates through its official channels.

The haze affecting parts of Eastern Visayas has been linked to smoke from forest and land fires in Indonesia, which have also contributed to deteriorating air quality in other parts of the Visayas.

EMB-8 urged the public to remain informed through official advisories as monitoring continues.