Provincial hospitals in Cebu are on heightened alert for respiratory-related cases that may arise from the "very unhealthy" air quality in Metro Cebu.

The provincial government wants its hospitals to be ready to accommodate and attend to patients, especially those from vulnerable groups who may seek treatment.

“If naay mga patients nga muadto for respiratory symptoms, kuan gyud sya, consideration sa kaning haze, kaning mga particles nato in the air,” said Dr. Elisse Nicole Catalan, health consultant of the provincial government.

These vulnerable groups include children, pregnant women, older adults, and those with asthma or heart/lung conditions.

Catalan said they will monitor the 16 capitol-run hospitals 24 hours.

As of April 21, 2026, none of the hospitals has recorded cases.

A persistent haze has settled over Metro Cebu since April 17, 2026. The Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has said data have confirmed a significant and concerning rise in fine particulate matter (PM2.5) in the air in the metro.

According to EMB, the haze might have been caused by the following factors:

• In very hot weather, high-pressure systems often lead to stagnant air. Without strong winds or rain to "wash" the atmosphere, pollutants from vehicles and industry don't disperse and hover over the city, creating the hazy conditions obseved in Talisay City and Cebu City.
• Zero Dispersion: A total lack of wind means that smoke, vehicle emissions, and dust are not being blown away; instead, they are accumulating directly in the air people breathe.
• Localized Emissions from vehicles and road dust
• Other area sources, such as grass fires (SRP Area) and residential/commercial fires (Pahina Central)

Authorities have since advised residents to wear protection and to not engage in activities that may put their health at risk.

The public can do the following:

• Stay indoors: Keep all windows and doors closed. Use air conditioning on "recirculate" mode if possible to prevent outside air from entering.
• Cancel outdoor activities: Avoid jogging, outdoor sports, or strenuous physical labor. The more deeply a person breathes, the more harmful particles enter his/her lungs.
• Wear protection: If one must go outside, wearing a well-fitted N95 or KN95 mask is advised. A standard cloth or surgical mask is not enough for PM2.5.
• Monitor health: Seek medical attention immediately if experiencing chest pain, difficulty breathing, or severe wheezing.