By Chris V. Panganiban
Inquirer Mindanao Bureau
SAN FRANCISCO, Agusan del Sur — The Department of Environment and Natural Resources–Environmental Management Bureau (DENR-EMB) Caraga has reminded residents to take precautionary measures as haze continues to affect parts of the region, with air quality monitoring stations recording elevated levels of particulate matter in recent days.
DENR-EMB Caraga Regional Director Ramon Abogadie said the haze being experienced in the area is a result of transboundary haze, a mixture of smoke, dust, and fine particles brought about by the ongoing wildfires in Kalimantan, Indonesia.
“What we have been experiencing for several days now is what we call transboundary haze, which is caused by the ongoing wildfire in Kalimantan, Indonesia,” Abogadie said during an exclusive interview with the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Caraga.
He explained that the southwest monsoon, or hanging habagat, has contributed to the movement of haze from Indonesia toward the Philippines, affecting communities in Caraga.
To monitor the region’s air condition, DENR-EMB Caraga continues to operate five air quality monitoring stations. Three automated monitoring stations located at the Butuan City Environment and Natural Resources Office (ENRO), Caraga State University (CSU) Main Campus, and Cabadbaran City provide real-time air quality readings, while manually operated stations in Magallanes and Nasipit, Agusan del Norte provide periodic monitoring data.
On September 3, two monitoring stations in Butuan City recorded a “Very Unhealthy” air quality classification due to increased concentrations of particulate matter, particularly PM₁₀ and PM₂.₅. The same classification was recorded in Cabadbaran City the following day, prompting local government units to temporarily suspend classes until air conditions improved.
According to DENR-EMB Caraga, exposure to haze may result in health concerns such as eye and throat irritation, nasal congestion, coughing, and difficulty in breathing. Those considered more vulnerable, including children, senior citizens, pregnant women, and individuals with existing respiratory or cardiovascular conditions, are advised to take extra precautions.
Engineer Albert Kenneth Arcamo, Engineer III and alternate air focal person of DENR-EMB Caraga, explained that particulate matter remains a critical factor in determining air quality.
“PM₁₀ measures ten micrometers, about one-seventh the diameter of a strand of hair. PM₂.₅ is even finer at 2.5 micrometers and can enter the bloodstream, posing greater danger to those with respiratory and cardiovascular illnesses,” Arcamo said.
He encouraged residents to wear properly fitted N95 or KN95 masks when going outdoors to reduce exposure to fine particles.
DENR-EMB Caraga also advised the public to limit unnecessary outdoor activities, especially in areas where haze is visible, and to stay updated through official advisories and air quality reports from government agencies.
Abogadie emphasized that public cooperation plays an important role in protecting community health during the haze episode.
“By taking simple precautionary steps, we can reduce the harmful effects of haze and protect community health,” he said.
DENR-EMB Caraga assured the public that continuous monitoring will be conducted and updates will be provided as air quality conditions in the region develop.
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