Butuan: Classes at all levels were suspended Friday in Butuan City as haze from forest fires in Indonesia drove air quality to unhealthy levels.
According to Philippines News Agency, the Environmental Management Bureau in Caraga (EMB-13) reported "Very Unhealthy" air quality based on readings from monitoring stations at Caraga State University (CSU) Main Campus and the Butuan City Environment and Natural Resources Office in Doongan. At 4 p.m. Thursday, the Doongan station recorded PM2.5 at 51 µg/Ncm, while CSU registered 54 µg/Ncm - both classified as "Very Unhealthy."
By 7 a.m. Friday, EMB-13 noted a slight improvement, with Doongan at 38 µg/Ncm and CSU at 41 µg/Ncm, levels considered "Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups." "There was a notable decrease in both PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations observed on Sept. 4 at 7 a.m. The situation remains subject to change depending on the intensity and location of fires, prevailing southwest monsoon conditions, atmospheric transport, local emission sources, and succeeding validated monitoring results," EMB-13 said. Residents were advised to limit outdoor exertion and take precautions to protect their health.
Cabadbaran City in Agusan del Norte also ordered class suspensions Friday after its monitoring station recorded PM2.5 at 58 µg/Ncm, classified as "Acutely Unhealthy." "The public is advised to take precautionary measures such as wearing tight-fitted face masks and refraining from prolonged outdoor activities as the air quality remains unhealthy," EMB-13 said.
In a separate advisory on Friday, the Department of Health in Caraga (DOH-13) urged the public to take precautionary measures as haze continues to affect parts of the region. "In view of the current air quality condition, DOH Caraga reminds the public, particularly individuals sensitive to particulate pollution, children, older persons, and those with existing health conditions, to take appropriate precautions while the haze persists. The public is advised to limit prolonged outdoor exposure, stay hydrated, and take appropriate protective measures when going outdoors," DOH-13 said. Health officials added that anyone experiencing difficulty breathing, persistent coughing, eye irritation, or other concerning symptoms should seek immediate medical attention.
Haze caused by the persistent forest fires in Indonesia continues to affect Butuan City and other parts of the region. PM2.5 and PM10 are types of tiny particles in the air that you can breathe in. PM10 are particles 10 micrometers or smaller that can enter the nose, throat, and lungs. Dust, pollen, and ash can be PM10. PM2.5 are particles 2.5 micrometers or smaller. They are tinier and can travel deep into the lungs and sometimes enter the bloodstream. Smoke, vehicle pollution, and volcanic emissions can contain PM2.5.
