Malabang: The Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) 10 (Northern Mindanao) observed fluctuations in air quality on Tuesday, assuring residents of this city and nearby Iligan City that the conditions remain safe.

According to Philippines News Agency, EMB-10 Director Reynaldo Digamo Jr. stated in an interview that the observed fluctuations were temporary, primarily due to localized emissions and varying weather conditions. He emphasized the importance of relying on scientific data over social media claims.

Digamo mentioned that continuous monitoring in Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental, and Iligan City showed the Air Quality Index (AQI) fluctuating between 'moderate' and 'good' over the past four days. On Tuesday morning at 8 a.m., the AQI briefly hit levels considered 'unhealthy for sensitive groups' but improved to 'good' by 5 p.m.

In response to these fluctuations, local authorities have recommended that the public wear face masks when outdoors during periods of moderate air quality.