The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) -Environmental Management Bureau said that the primary contributor to sulfur dioxide emissions in Metro Manila is motor vehicles, particularly in areas with heavy traffic.
Gonzales: Pangunahing contributor po ng sulfur dioxide emission na nararanasan sa Metro Manila ang mga motor vehicles.#SOS #SpecialOnSaturday #SamaSamaTayoPilipino
— DZRH NEWS (@dzrhnews) September 22, 2023
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In an interview with DZRH, Assistant Secretary Gilbert Gonzales, Director of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources - Environmental Management Bureau (DENR-EMB), discussed the state of air quality in Metro Manila amidst the haze.
DENR Asec. Gonzales pointed out that the hazy conditions began around September 7 and clarified that its is not the volcanic smog coming from Taal Volcano.
Asec. Gilbert Gonzales, DENR-EMB Director, sa air quality sa Metro Manila: Natyempo lang na nagkaroon ng activity ang Taal, pero ang na-observe sa Manila ay nagsimula na po noong Sept. 7 pa which is 'yung haze.#SOS #SpecialOnSaturday
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He emphasized that, as of now, the air quality in Metro Manila has not been significantly affected, generally maintaining good and fair levels. Nevertheless, certain areas within the metropolis are experiencing less healthy air quality.
"Hindi pa naman po affected ang air quality dito sa Metro Manila, good and fair pa naman po. May mga area lang na hindi po healthy," Gonzales emphasized.
He explained that when the air quality index remains within a low range, it is considered good. However, if it exceeds the standard levels, it is deemed unhealthy.
Gonzales: Pag ang range po ng nakuha nating air level ay mababa, good po 'yan, pero 'pag lumalagpas po sa standard ay unhealthy na po 'yan.#SOS #SpecialOnSaturday #SamaSamaTayoPilipino
— DZRH NEWS (@dzrhnews) September 22, 2023
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Wind direction can influence these conditions, causing fluctuations in air quality.
Based on the latest monitoring, areas such as Parañaque, Makati, and Pateros are currently experiencing high levels of unhealthy air.
In response to the haze, Asec. Gonzales recommended wearing face masks, especially for individuals with respiratory conditions, to minimize exposure.
The DENR-EMB continues to monitor air quality and provide updates to ensure the well-being of Metro Manila residents amid these changing conditions.
