By Marisol Bo-oc | 06:08 PM October 07, 2023
Smoke and haze from the forest fires in Indonesia have begun to affect air quality in several regions of the Philippines, including some areas in Visayas and Mindanao.
In an advisory, the Philippine Emergency Alerts Monitoring Center said that light haze is experienced in Visayas- Antique, Aklan, Capiz, Iloilo, Guimaras, Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, Cebu, Bohol, Siquijor, Leyte and Southern Leyte
On Friday, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) – Environmental Management Bureau (EMB)-7 said that Metro Cebu is currently experiencing light haze, as confirmed by DOST-PAGASA.
Due to this, the agency advised the public, especially coming from sensitive groups, to stay indoors and avoid outdoor activities. They also advised the public to take precautions, such as wearing appropriate masks.
AREAS EXPERIENCING MODERATE HAZE:
- Palawan
- Zamboanga del Norte
- Zamboanga del Sur
- Zamboanga Sibugay
- Zamboanga City
- North Cotabato
- Davao City
- Cotabato City
- Lanao del Sur
- Maguindanao
AREAS EXPERIENCING LIGHT-MODERATE HAZE:
- Antique
- Aklan
- Capiz
- Iloilo
- Guimaras
- Negros Occidental
- Negros Oriental
- Cebu
- Bohol
- Siquijor
- Leyte
- Southern Leyte
- Zamboanga del Sur
- Isabela City
- Basilan
- Cagayan de Oro City
- Misamis Oriental
- Misamis Occidental
- Lanao del Norte
- Bukidnon
- Davao City
- Davao del Norte
- Davao del Sur
- Davao de Oro
- South Cotabato
- Sultan Kudarat
PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES:
- If you are in an affected area, limit outdoor activities and stay indoors as much as possible. Ensure your home is well-ventilated and consider using air purifiers if available.
- If you must go outside, consider using masks, to protect your respiratory health.
- Use eye protection like goggles or sunglasses to shield your eyes from irritation caused by the haze.
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
- Avoid strenuous activities outdoors, especially if you have respiratory issues.
- If you experience severe breathing difficulties or health issues due to the haze, seek medical assistance.
The public especially residents in the affected areas are advised to take precautionary measures against the effects of the haze.
