Metro Manila Impacted by Volcanic Smog, or Was it?

On Monday, August 19, some classes in Metro Manila and Region IV-A were suspended, or shifted to online learning, amid reports of volcanic smog released from Taal Volcano. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology had been noting the presence of volcanic smog around Taal since August 17. Metro Manila was covered in a visible haze.  

However, PHIVOLCS later clarified that the smog in Metro Manila was likely caused by pollutants and not volcanic smog. Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) air quality monitoring stations were mostly listed as being offline, but some stations (in Makati, Pateros, and Caloocan) noted that air quality at those stations was “unhealthy for sensitive groups.” The DENR issued no statements about the cause of the haze. The Department of Health issued an advisory about the dangers of volcanic smog and how to mitigate the health impacts, but did not clarify what areas were impacted.

This is not the first time that there was confusion about smog in Metro Manila, and whether or not a visible haze was coming from the volcano or was just elevated air pollution. A similar instance happened in July 2021, with confusion over what was the cause of visible haze. At the time, Greenpeace Philippines criticized the DENR for having offline monitoring stations, as well as criticizing the government in general for the bad air quality situation.  

When the government provides limited information, or conflicting information, about air quality, how should individuals and organizations respond?  Generally speaking, when these concerns about air quality arise, individuals with respiratory health conditions, and organizations responsible for those with health conditions, should exercise more caution and try to limit their movements outside. As reflected by the decision of the Secretary of Education to suspend in person classes, schools are likely to be conservative in their decision making.