The Department of Natural Resources (DENR) has assured the public that the haze currently observed in Cebu is not a cause for concern, even as delegates arrive for the ASEAN Summit in May.
DENR Official's Statement
Jose Cleo Cary Colis of the DENR made this announcement on April 23, 2026. He emphasized that the ASEAN Summit committee is ensuring both the security of delegates and environmental safety.
Colis explained that activities during the summit should not be a worry as they will be held inside hotels or meeting halls. "The delegates will stay indoors because it is safer, as our air conditioners have filters, and we will also limit their outdoor exposure to avoid air quality issues," Colis said on April 23, 2026.
Public Health Advisory
He also warned the public to continue wearing face masks to protect themselves from any effects of the current situation. Based on the latest data from the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) on Thursday, an increase in fine particulate matter (PM2.5) was observed in Talisay City. This was attributed to stagnant air and local emissions, which could be particularly alarming for sensitive groups.
If these pollutants are inhaled into the lungs and then into the bloodstream, they could potentially cause asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or heart disease. Children and the elderly are most commonly affected.
The DENR-EMB continues to call for heightened body protection, especially the use of N95 or KN95 masks, particularly for vulnerable sectors and those with underlying diseases.
