By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA — Air quality in four Manila districts deteriorated to “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” and “Very Unhealthy” levels by noon Friday, prompting the city government to advise residents — especially children, seniors, pregnant women, and those with asthma — to limit outdoor activity and wear face masks.
Based on the latest monitoring at 12:00 NN under the Asia Blue Skies Project, air quality stations recorded “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” (UFSG) readings at Anda Circle, San Sebastian Residences, and Sta. Ana Hospital, while Puregold Tayuman hit the worse “Very Unhealthy” tier.
The UFSG level means members of sensitive groups may experience health effects, while the general public is less likely to be affected. “Very Unhealthy” signals health warnings of emergency conditions, with the entire population more likely to be affected.
“Because of this, the public — especially those in affected areas — is advised to limit going outside and wear face masks as protection against the harmful effects of polluted air,” the Manila City Government said in its advisory.
Officials strongly urged children, the elderly, pregnant women, and people with respiratory conditions such as asthma to stay indoors and avoid prolonged outdoor exposure.
The city said it is “continuously monitoring the situation to protect the health and safety of every Manileño” and told residents to stay alert for further updates.
For emergencies, the public may contact the Manila City DRRM Department at:
(02) 8463-3295
0950-700-3710
0932-662-2322
ia/xf
