The air quality in Metro Cebu reached levels considered unhealthy for sensitive groups on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, according to the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB-7).
The monitoring station in Talisay City recorded a particulate matter (PM2.5) index of 121. As a result, EMB-7 advised children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions to limit strenuous outdoor activities.
Wednesday marked the fourth consecutive day since May 17 that PM2.5 levels in the area fell under the "unhealthy" category. Temperatures averaged between 30.2 and 30.8 degrees Celsius.
Larger dust particles that only enter the nose and throat were recorded as "fair" or safe. PM2.5 consists of finer particles that can enter the bloodstream, making them more dangerous to health.
On May 16, pollution worsened to a "very unhealthy" level. This was more severe than the haze that blanketed Metro Cebu on April 17-19, when the index reached 199 due to extreme heat, grass fires in SRP and Pahina Central, and vehicle emissions.
If pollution rises further to "very unhealthy," the public is advised to stay indoors, close windows, use air purifiers, and wear protective masks when going outside.
