Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 22) — The Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) in Region VIII issued a public advisory on Friday after noting an increase in dust particles suspended in the air.
In their advisory, EMB-VIII said, “These dust particles, because of their relatively small size, are suspended in the air for a longer period of time and when inhaled, can penetrate into the lungs that may cause development or escalation of respiratory ailments.”
The bureau said the public should take precautions and avoid going outside “as much as possible.” Wearing protective equipment such as dust masks and goggles were also suggested.
EMB-VII’s advisory follows an earlier confirmation by the EMB in Region VII that haze present in Metro Cebu on September 17 was similar to the smog experienced in Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore.
Engr. Cindy Pepito-Ochea of EMB-VII said their team was conducting air quality tests because of the presence of haze.
Stringer Dale Israel contributed to this report.
