Poor air quality persists in Metro Manila

MANILA, Philippines — Poor air quality persists in Metro Manila amid the Indonesia forest fires, data from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources showed.

Based on the DENR air quality index data yesterday, the particulate matter or PM2.5 in parts of Metro Manila has reached “very unhealthy” levels.

Among the areas with “very unhealthy” air quality levels are Caloocan, Las Piñas, Muntinlupa and Parañaque.

The air quality in the remaining areas was “unhealthy for sensitive groups.”

Aside from the forest fires in Indonesia, the DENR said the poor air quality was also attributed to “other local sources.”

The public has been advised to avoid prolonged outdoor exposure, particularly in areas blanketed by haze.

People sensitive to air pollution including children, the elderly and those suffering from respiratory or cardiovascular conditions have been told to remain indoors.

Wearing of face masks, preferably an N95 or of equivalent quality, is recommended when going out in areas where haze is visible.