The Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Environmental Management Bureau (DENR-EMB) has observed “very unhealthy” air in several areas in Metro Manila.
As of 10 a.m. on Sunday, the bureau’s Real-Time Ambient Air Quality Monitoring said the air quality in some areas reached “very unhealthy” and “unhealthy for sensitive groups” levels.
Makati’s 163 air quality index (AQI) was described as very unhealthy. Meanwhile, Pateros (144 AQI), Parañaque (133 AQI), and Caloocan (116 AQI) were all noted as unhealthy for sensitive groups.
The AQI represents air pollution concentrations, providing an indication of the quality of the air and its health effects on the public.
“Very unhealthy” level ranges from 151 to 200 AQI, meaning people with heart or respiratory diseases must stay indoors, rest as much as possible, and postpone unnecessary trips.
“Unhealthy for sensitive groups” level ranges from 101 to 150 AQI, which means people with respiratory diseases like asthma must limit outdoor exertion.
“Good” level of air quality ranges from 0 to 50 AQI, which means air quality is satisfactory and air pollution poses little or no risk.
