19/04/2026
🌫️ HEALTH ADVISORY | Poor Air Quality: Mask Up!
For the health and safety of everybody, we strongly advise in wearing masks until our air clears up from haze brought about by the pollutants.
Stay safe. Stay protected. 💙
Air Quality Updates as of April 19, 2026
Since April 17, 2026, a persistent haze has settled over Metro Cebu. Data from the Talisay City Station confirms a significant and concerning rise in fine particulate matter (PM2.5).
The Air Quality Index (AQI) has climbed from 112 yesterday (April 18) to 199 as of 8:00 AM today, April 19. This sharp increase officially moves our air quality into the "VERY UNHEALTHY" category.
🔍 Why is this happening?
The current "Very Unhealthy" conditions can be attributed to 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; they hover over the city, creating the hazy conditions recently observed in Talisay 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 we breathe.
Localized Emissions from Vehicles and Road Dust
Other Area sources, such as grass fires (SRP Area) and residential/commercial fires(Pahina Central) were observed in the City
⚠️ What does "Very Unhealthy" mean for you?
At an AQI of 199, the air quality is now a concern for everyone, not just those with pre-existing conditions.
The General Public: Many people may begin to experience health effects, such as throat irritation, coughing, or shortness of breath.
High-Risk Groups: Children, pregnant women, older adults, and those with asthma or heart/lung conditions are at significant risk of respiratory distress.
To protect your health during this period, the Bureau strongly advises:
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 you breathe, the more harmful particles enter your lungs.
WEAR PROTECTION: If you must go outside, a standard cloth or surgical mask is not enough for PM2.5. Please use a well-fitted N95 or KN95 mask.
MONITOR HEALTH: Seek medical attention immediately if you experience chest pain, difficulty breathing, or severe wheezing.
