4 years after Mt. Mayon’s eruption, Bicol enjoys ‘good air quality’

Mt. Mayon in Albay has become the most popular icon representing Bicol region for many years despite its dangers as one of the most active volcanoes in the country. File photo by Michael Jaucian/Inquirer Southern Luzon

LIGAO CITY — Air in Bicol region is deemed in good index quality four years after the latest eruption of Mount Mayon, based on the assessment by Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Region V.

“After four years of monitoring using the high volume air sampler apparatus stationed around Mayon Volcano, we found out that the air within the 360 degrees location turned to be in good quality condition,” Christine Marbella, Senior Environmental Management Specialist (SEMS) under the Ambient Monitoring and Technical Services Section (AMTSS) of EMB V, said in an interview Wednesday.

Marbella said the air quality index has improved a lot based on the data collected on January 1 compared to the data in January 2018 when Mayon Volcano erupted, making the air unhealthy due to ashfall.

“The suspended particulates in Ligao City, measured at 52 microgram per normal cubic meter which is within the range of 0 to 80 microgram per cubic meter, indicates good air quality index. In Guinobatan, (we have) 76 microgram per normal cubic meter, (while) in Malilipot area, we have 60 microgram per normal cubic meter,” she said.

Meanwhile, Marbella said the condition of air quality index in the rest of the Bicol region, particularly its seven cities, “has good quality index based on the data collected by our stations.”

She said in order to maintain clean or good quality of air in the region, car owners should have their vehicles regularly maintained because dirty machines contribute a lot in gas emission and, if possible, just walk going to their destination especially if it is just a short distance away.

The use or consumption of power must also be controlled because it is also contributory in the emission of green gas which affects air quality.

The burning of waste materials and dried leaves should also be prohibited because it pollutes the air, Marbella added.

JPV