Metro Manila air quality reached acutely unhealthy levels as regional monitoring data tracked a sharp surge in fine particulate matter driven by smoke from Indonesian forest fires. According to regional air quality monitoring data from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Environmental Management Bureau (DENR-EMB), most parts of the National Capital Region recorded very unhealthy air quality readings as of 7 p.m.
Air Quality Index Readings Across Metro Manila
Monitoring stations across the capital region captured hazardous particulate matter levels, with southern cities registering the most severe concentrations. According to the DENR-EMB data reported by ABS-CBN News, Parañaque recorded the highest reading at 270 in the Don Bosco area, while Las Piñas reached 205. Both figures fall into the acutely unhealthy classification.
Other urban centers across the region recorded very unhealthy air quality index (AQI) values. Manila registered 198, followed by Malabon at 186. Valenzuela and Quezon City-Ateneo both recorded 179. Additional areas reporting elevated pollution levels included Taguig-TUP, Marikina-Parang, San Juan, Muntinlupa-Filinvest City, Pasay, and Mandaluyong.
Source of the Haze and Meteorological Factors
The sudden degradation of air quality is directly linked to transboundary smoke. According to atmospheric physicist Dr. Gerry Bagtasa of the University of the Philippines Institute of Environmental Science and Meteorology, smoke from forest fires in Kalimantan, Indonesia, was carried toward the Philippines by prevailing winds. This long-range transport contributed significantly to the persistent haze observed across Metro Manila and surrounding regions.
State environmental agencies and local disaster risk reduction offices warned that the particulate pollution could linger for days depending on wind patterns and regional weather systems.
Public Health Advisories and Protection Measures
In response to the hazardous air quality, local government units and environmental authorities issued health advisories urging residents to take precautions. DENR and local health offices recommended that vulnerable populations—including children and senior citizens—wear face masks when venturing outside.
Residents in affected zones across Metro Manila, Calabarzon, and Mimaropa were advised to keep windows closed and utilize air purifiers where available until prevailing winds clear the regional atmosphere.
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