KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato — The Provincial Government of South Cotabato, alongside environmental authorities, has urged residents to take immediate health precautions after a thick blanket of haze pushed local air quality into dangerous levels this week.
Environment Management Bureau (EMB) XII recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 312.8, classified as “Emergency,” at 6:00 p.m. on September 1.
Several other hours that same day also showed “Very Unhealthy” and “Unhealthy” readings.
On September 2, air quality spiked again to “Very Unhealthy” levels, with an AQI of 268.3 recorded at 7:00 a.m.
Air quality improved later in the day, returning to the “Fair” category.
Despite the spikes, the 24-hour average air quality for September 1 was still rated “Fair.”
EMB XII said the poor air quality is due to haze, and it will continue monitoring conditions closely.
The Provincial Government is advising senior citizens, children, pregnant women, and people with respiratory conditions to stay indoors as much as possible.
The public is also encouraged to avoid unnecessary outdoor activities until air quality improves.
Wearing an N95, KN95, or surgical mask is recommended when going outside, especially in areas with poor air quality.
Meanwhile, the Polomolok Municipal Hospital (PMH) has issued its own advisory due to the poor air quality caused by haze from forest fires in Indonesia.
PMH has made the wearing of face masks mandatory for all employees, patients, visitors, and clients inside the hospital and other enclosed public areas.
The hospital also advised individuals with respiratory conditions, senior citizens, children, and pregnant women to stay indoors as much as possible.
Outdoor activities are discouraged until air quality improves, PMH said.
The hospital is encouraging everyone to wear N95, KN95, or surgical masks if available to protect their health and the health of others.
Authorities urged the public to stay alert and follow health advisories as monitoring continues.
