Air quality in Bacolod City was classified as unhealthy for sensitive groups and very unhealthy in La Castellana, Negros Occidental, on Sunday, Sept. 20, the Environmental Management Bureau–Negros Island Region (EMB-NIR) reported.
The air quality in La Carlota City was fair and good Canlaon City, the EMB added.
The EMB-NIR said residents in areas designated as a very unhealthy should avoid high-traffic zones.
Individuals with heart or respiratory conditions, such as asthma, are strongly advised to stay indoors and rest as much as possible. The agency also urged the public to postpone unnecessary trips and to voluntarily restrict vehicle use to prevent further air degradation.
In locations categorized as unhealthy for sensitive groups, people with pre-existing respiratory conditions are advised to limit outdoor physical exertion, the EMB said.
The EMB attributed the widespread haze across parts of the Philippines to smoke and transboundary pollutants originating from ongoing forest fires in Kalimantan, Indonesia.
Environmental and health authorities warned that the degraded air poses heightened health risks, especially to vulnerable populations.
The public is urged to wear well-fitting masks, reduce outdoor activity, stay indoors when possible, and closely monitor official health advisories.*
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