Negros residents warned as Indonesia haze worsens air quality

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY — The Environmental Management Bureau-Negros Island Region (EMB-NIR) warned residents Tuesday about haze affecting the region after air quality in La Castellana, Negros Occidental, reached a “very unhealthy” Air Quality Index (AQI) level.

As of 8 a.m., EMB-NIR said surrounding monitored areas maintained a “fair” AQI status.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Environmental Management Bureau (DENR-EMB) is closely monitoring air quality in several areas of the Philippines after observing haze possibly associated with smoke from ongoing forest and land fires in Kalimantan, Indonesia.

The smoke may have been transported to the Philippines by prevailing winds, with transboundary haze reaching parts of Luzon and the Visayas.

EMB-NIR advised the public to wear a well-fitted face mask, especially when going outdoors in areas affected by the haze, stay indoors whenever possible, and keep doors and windows closed to reduce exposure to smoke and fine particulate matter.

Individuals with asthma, allergies, and other respiratory conditions were advised to avoid unnecessary outdoor exposure.

The Department of Health-Negros Island Region (DOH-NIR) reiterated the advisory, particularly for public utility vehicle drivers, delivery riders, street vendors, and field workers who spend extended periods outdoors.

Health authorities have advised the public to use N95 masks when possible and limit prolonged outdoor activities because fine particulate matter in haze can penetrate deep into the lungs.

Bacolod Mayor Greg Gasataya also stressed the need for precautions, particularly for children, pregnant women, senior citizens, and people with respiratory conditions.

Gasataya said the city government would continue monitoring the situation and tracking air quality levels through its monitoring station in Barangay Alijis.