Air quality in Manila reached “unhealthy” levels on New Year’s Day, according to Swiss air quality technology company IQAir. 

As of 12 noon onn Wednesday, the city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) was at 167, with Particulate Matter 2.5 (PM2.5) being the primary pollutant. 

PM2.5 concentration was 78.4 micrograms per cubic meter, 15.7 times higher than the World Health Organization’s annual guideline value. 

“PM2.5 particles are so small they can be absorbed into the bloodstream upon inhalation,” IQAir said. “For this reason, it is typically the pollutant posing the greatest health threat.” 

Sources of PM2.5 include combustion from power plants, wildfires, vehicle emissions, industrial processes and the burning of waste.

Globally, Manila ranked 22nd among cities with the highest air pollution levels.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Environmental Management Bureau (DENR-EMB) warned that poor air quality poses health risks, particularly for people with asthma.

“These fine particles can reach or damage our bloodstream and our respiratory system,” said Engr. Jundy del Socorro, chief of the DENR-EMB’s air quality management office. “Fireworks contain toxic substances called metal salts that can cause cancer or have carcinogenic effects.” 

The DENR-EMB noted that cooler weather can hinder the dispersion of air pollutants. Rain, however, can help improve air quality. 

Socorro advised at-risk individuals to stay indoors to minimize exposure to high pollution levels.