Palace to public: Keep masks on

MANILA, Philippines — While the air quality in Metro Manila and nearby areas has returned to normal due to the subsiding volcanic smog or vog from Taal Volcano and pollution-related smog, Malacañang is still recommending the wearing of face masks as a protection against pollution.

“The latest DENR (Department of Environment and Natural Resources) update indicates favorable air quality readings at its monitoring stations,” the Presidential Communications Office posted on Facebook on Sunday.

“While no cautionary measures are necessary, it is advisable to wear a face mask to safeguard against potential air pollution from vehicles,” it added.

As of Sept. 24, the DENR reported “good” air quality in Caloocan, Makati, Parañaque, Pateros and Antipolo for PM 2.5, which measures finer particles such as black carbon particulates from vehicle transportation.

Good air quality was also reported in parts of Quezon City for SO2 or sulfur dioxide emissions that can be associated with volcanic eruptions.

The DENR said that some air quality stations show “unhealthy” readings but these cannot be attributed directly to the Taal emission.

Taal remains on alert level 1, which means that hydrothermal or tectonic activity beneath the volcano may be occurring and steam-driven, gas or hydrothermal explosions can occur without warning.

Threat remains

Vog from Taal Volcano remains a threat as the volcano continues to emit sulfur dioxide, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs).

“Those living near Taal Volcano should be prepared as this will be a recurring threat as long as the Taal Volcano is spewing out sulfur dioxide, the threat of vog is always there,” Phivolcs director Teresito Bacolcol said yesterday.

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