Ashfall from the eruption of Taal Volcano blankets vehicles parked on UN Avenue in Manila on Monday, turning a windshield into what looks like a relief map. —MARIANNE BERMUDEZ
MANILA, Philippines — Air quality in parts of Metro Manila continues to improve after it being affected by the heavy ashfall spewed by the erupting Taal Volcano, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) said.
But data from DENR showed that as of 10 p.m. on Tuesday, the level of Particulate Matter 10 (PM 10), also known as dust, in Taguig City remains at 89, which is considered as “moderate or fair.”
Also included in the DENR’s air quality monitoring are the following Metro Manila cities and a municipality:
San Juan (46:good)
Makati City (35:good)
Mandaluyong City (34:good)
Municipality of Pateros (22:good)
Malabon City (22:good)
Las Piñas (14:good)
Parañaque City (6:good)
Pasig City (6:good)
The record also showed a further improvement apart from Monday evening’s data. On Monday night, the DENR recorded on Monday a PM 10 record of 53 for Malabon City.
According to the air quality index used by the DENR, having a “good” record means that “air pollution poses little to no risk.” A “moderate or fair” rating, meanwhile, means there is a “moderate health risk” for a small group of people who are unusually sensitive to polluted air.
When air quality reaches 301 up to 500, this is described as “hazardous” and people are advised “to remain indoors and to keep doors and windows closed unless heat stress is possible,” the DENR said.
Following the eruption of Taal Volcano on Sunday, heavy ashfall was experienced in Metro Manila, which led to the suspension of classes and government work.
DENR Undersecretary Benny Antiporda previously warned of the risks in inhaling volcanic particles from the erupting Taal Volcano.