By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Senator Loren Legarda has called on authorities to strictly enforce the Clean Air Act following reports that Metro Manila’s air quality reached “very unhealthy” levels after New Year’s Day celebrations.
“Excessive fireworks celebrations across Metro Manila pose significant risks, not only to safety but also to respiratory health due to the massive smoke released by burning gunpowder,” Legarda stated.
She emphasized the importance of the Clean Air Act, which mandates the government to ensure clean and safe air, free from harmful pollutants.
Reports revealed alarming levels of air pollution in several Metro Manila cities, with the National Capital Region (NCR) shrouded in thick smoke on Wednesday morning. Among NCR’s local government units, the City of Manila recorded the highest Air Quality Index (AQI) at 218, categorized as “very unhealthy,” according to data from IQAir.
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