Hazy skies over Metro Manila due to landfill and warehouse fires

Hazy skies over Metro Manila on Monday, April 28, were caused by fires at a landfill in Montalban, Rizal, and a warehouse in Commonwealth, Quezon City.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources - Environmental Management Bureau (DENR-EMB) reported that particulate matter concentrations, particularly PM10 and PM2.5, peaked between 5 a.m. to 7 a.m., but had reduced by 9 a.m.

PM10 refers to particles up to 10 micrometers in diameter, while PM2.5 are finer particles up to 2.5 micrometers, which can cause respiratory and cardiovascular issues with high exposure.

The DENR-EMB assured the public that it will continue monitoring air quality as readings vary based on pollution sources and meteorological conditions.

Air quality levels fluctuate over time and location due to various factors, including weather patterns and pollution sources; the Quezon City government issued a warning urging residents to wear face masks following an Air Quality Index (AQI) reading of 'unhealthy' and 'very unhealthy' levels in parts of the city.