DAVAO CITY – The Environmental Management Bureau (EMB)-Davao assured the people that the air quality index (AQI) in Davao region is at “fair to good” levels amid concerns about the possible impact of massive forest fires in Indonesia on the region’s air quality.
SMOG envelops the skyline of Davao City and neighboring areas in the Davao Gulf on Wednesday, October 4. Residents have observed a hazy skyline of the city since Monday, October 2. (Keith Bacongco)
EMB-Davao director Alnulfo M. Alvarez assured the public that the bureau is “monitoring the situation and is well-prepared to respond to any changes.”
"We understand the concerns of our community members regarding the forest fires in Indonesia and their potential impact on our air quality,” he said.
Alvarez said the air quality is generally satisfactory, posing little or no risk to health despite concerns about a possible transboundary haze across countries in the Southeast Asian region.
He added that the agency is closely monitoring the air quality to ensure the “well-being of the residents.”
Alvarez said the bureau is committed to intensively monitor any changes in the AQI.
“Our dedicated team of experts is working diligently to keep track of the air quality data and take necessary actions to safeguard the public health,” he said.
EMB-Davao urged the residents to stay updated on the air quality status through http://ambientair.emb.gov.ph/ and take necessary precautions, especially individuals with respiratory conditions.
“It is advisable to limit outdoor activities and use masks if ever the AQI deteriorates,” it said.
The Environment Ministry of Indonesia denied that forest fires in Sumatra and portions of Borneo were causing the haze in Malaysia.