Metro Manila LGUs advise masks, caution amid haze from Indonesia

SEVERAL local government units across Metro Manila have issued health advisories urging residents to wear face masks and limit outdoor exposure as drifting haze from forest fires in Indonesia continues to degrade air quality across the region.

Monitoring stations and reports from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources–Environmental Management Bureau (DENR‑EMB) confirm that particulate matter has risen to concerning levels, prompting city leaders to take preemptive action to protect public health.

In Manila, Mayor Isko Moreno Domagoso warned residents on Tuesday morning about the deterioration in air quality, citing official data from monitoring networks. Meanwhile, in Caloocan, Mayor Along Malapitan specifically advised vulnerable groups — including children, senior citizens, pregnant women, and individuals living with asthma or other lung and heart conditions — to wear masks whenever stepping outside. The advisories emphasize that these sectors face the highest risk of respiratory irritation and related complications from prolonged exposure to the haze.

Authorities across affected cities also urged the public to reduce prolonged outdoor activities and avoid strenuous physical exertion while air quality remains poor. Residents are encouraged to stay indoors whenever feasible, keep windows closed, and use air purifiers if available. LGUs continue to monitor air quality updates closely and will issue further guidance should conditions worsen or improve in the coming days.