The haze in Cebu reached the “unhealthy” levels already, making the air unsafe for sick and young children and the elderly.
Cebu education and health officials advised the public to take precautionary measures like staying indoors, avoiding outdoor activities, and wearing masks.
As of 8 a.m. yesterday, Particulate Matter (PM) 2.5 test results showed 56 micrograms per standard cubic meter. EMB 7 chief Cindylyn Ochea said the result was above the safe value of 50 micrograms per average cubic meter.
“That was the result we got from our station in Talisay City. We also installed other stations in the rooftop of a building in IT Park and one other in Cordova. But the results of these two stations will be available after 24 hours since we are using manual equipment,” Ochea said.
The EMB 7 still has to know how long the haze in Cebu has been in the atmosphere. “We are still tracking the trend based on the results. Various meteorological factors could. There are various meteorological factors that could affect its concentration in the air. First is the rain, which could wash it away. Others include wind direction and wind speed,” she said.
Department of Health (DOH) warns the haze may increase the risk of other respiratory illnesses.
“We still have to determine the types of gasses of the haze. Yes, it has risks to health, especially for the elderly and the neonates and those with allergies. Better to avoid exposure by staying indoors as much as possible,” Dr. Jaime Bernadas, DOH 7 director, said.
Department of Education 7 advised public schools to implement such protective measures.
The haze from Indonesia forest fires also reached the Davao region, Soccsksargen, Bacolod, Iloilo, Dumaguete, Zamboanga, Puerto Princesa, Tagum City, and Koronadal City.