Air quality in Valenzuela unhealthy for sensitive groups — EMB

The air quality in Valenzuela City was classified as “unhealthy for sensitive groups” as of Monday morning, according to the Environmental Management Bureau–National Capital Region (EMB-NCR).

In an update at 9 a.m., EMB-NCR reported that the air quality index (AQI) for particulate matter (PM2.5) in Valenzuela reached 105.

Under this classification, individuals with respiratory conditions are advised to wear face masks, limit outdoor activities, and keep windows and doors closed to prevent polluted air from entering their homes.

Short-term exposure to PM2.5 may cause premature death among people with heart or lung disease, nonfatal heart attacks, irregular heartbeat, aggravated asthma, decreased lung function, and increased respiratory symptoms such as airway irritation, coughing, and difficulty breathing.

Meanwhile, “good” air quality was recorded in several areas, including the University of the East in Caloocan; Makati; Malabon; Mandaluyong; Marikina; Muntinlupa; Navotas; Pasay; Ateneo de Manila University and SMPH Commonwealth in Quezon City; San Juan; and the Technological University of the Philippines in Taguig.

Several Metro Manila areas earlier recorded unhealthy air quality following the fire at a sanitary landfill in Navotas, which began on April 10.—MCG, GMA News