(Image from EMB-Davao Region)
DAVAO CITY – Air quality in several parts of the Davao Region reached levels considered unhealthy for sensitive groups on Monday morning due to elevated fine particulate matter, according to the Environmental Management Bureau-Davao Region.
In its 7 a.m. bulletin, EMB-11 said monitoring stations in Malita, Digos and Calinan recorded “unhealthy for sensitive groups” levels for PM2.5, while Tagum posted good air quality.
PM2.5 refers to airborne particles measuring 2.5 micrometers or smaller that can penetrate deep into the lungs and may pose greater risks to people with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions.
Tagum recorded an air quality index of 43.78 for PM2.5, while Malita posted 128.94, Digos 119.8 and Calinan 119.6.
EMB-11 attributed the elevated readings to transboundary haze from Kalimantan and South Papua in Indonesia, saying the conditions were outside the usual trend observed at the affected monitoring sites.
For PM10, Digos and Calinan recorded fair air quality with readings of 54.2 and 75.8, respectively, while Malita registered a good level of 49.9.
The agency warned that conditions in Malita, Digos and Calinan may cause discomfort among sensitive groups, particularly children, older adults and people with respiratory illnesses.
Residents in affected areas were advised to limit prolonged outdoor exertion and take appropriate health precautions.
Air quality in Tagum, meanwhile, remained within levels considered safe for all groups.
