Air Quality Pollution Guide Philippines
Philippine air quality uses the US EPA standard — the worst months are March to May (dry/burning season), and El Niño years bring worse conditions. This guide covers how to check the Air Quality Index, which areas are most affected, health precautions for expats with respiratory conditions, and practical tips for daily life during high-pollution periods.
Community-written and moderated by volunteers. Based on real experiences and official sources — offices may interpret rules differently.
Processes may vary by office, city or province. Always confirm with your local agency before traveling.
Summary
Philippine air quality uses the US EPA standard — the worst months are March to May (dry/burning season), and El Niño years bring worse conditions. This guide covers how to check the Air Quality Index, which areas are most affected, health precautions for expats with respiratory conditions, and practical tips for daily life during high-pollution periods.
Key facts
What you'll need
- 1Smartphone with air quality app (IQAir, AirVisual)
- 2N95 or KN95 masks (for high pollution days)
- 3Air purifier for home (if sensitive to pollution)
Steps
- 1
Download IQAir or AirVisual app for real-time AQI
- 2
Check AQI daily — especially during dry season (January-May)
- 3
AQI 0-50: Good, 51-100: Moderate, 101-150: Unhealthy for sensitive groups
- 4
AQI 150+: Limit outdoor exercise, wear N95 mask
- 5
Buy air purifier for bedroom if AQI regularly exceeds 100
- 6
Keep windows closed during high pollution days
Costs
| Item | Approx. cost |
|---|---|
| N95 masks (pack of 10) | ₱200-400 |
| Air purifier (bedroom) | ₱5,000-15,000 |
| HEPA filter replacement | ₱1,000-3,000/year |
Timing
Manila's AQI averages 50-80 (moderate) but spikes to 150+ during dry season (burning season March-May). Cebu is generally better. Provincial areas are usually good.
Local variations
["Metro Manila: Moderate to poor, worst Jan-May", "Cebu City: Moderate, better than Manila", "Dumaguete: Generally good", "Beach areas: Usually excellent"]
This section reflects real experiences. Always confirm with your local office before traveling.
Common issues
- Construction dust is a major pollution source in Manila
- Tricycle and jeepney exhaust contributes significantly
- Burning season (March-May) affects all of Luzon
- If you have asthma or respiratory issues, consider living outside Metro Manila
Overview
The Philippine AQI uses the US EPA standard. The worst months are March-May (dry/burning season). El Nino years bring worse air quality.
How to check air quality
- AQI Philippines website and app
- IQAir website
- PurpleAir sensors (available in some areas)
AQI ranges
- 0-50: Good (safe for all)
- 51-100: Moderate (acceptable)
- 101-150: Unhealthy for sensitive groups
- 151-200: Unhealthy (everyone should limit outdoor activity)
- 201-300: Very unhealthy (avoid outdoor exercise)
- 301+: Hazardous (stay indoors)
Worst areas
- Metro Manila (especially during dry season)
- Urban areas with heavy traffic
- Areas near factories or power plants
Best areas
- Coastal areas (sea breeze disperses pollution)
- Mountain areas (Tagaytay, Baguio, Bukidnon)
- Provinces with less traffic and industry
Health precautions
- Use N95 masks during high pollution days
- Keep windows closed during smoky conditions
- Use air purifiers at home
- Avoid outdoor exercise when AQI exceeds 100
- Stay hydrated
Frequently asked questions
Quick answers to the most common questions about this process.
Below AQI 100, yes for most people. Above 100, limit intense exercise. Above 150, exercise indoors.
Yes, HEPA air purifiers significantly reduce indoor PM2.5. Essential if you live near a busy road or in Manila.
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- v1CurrentPublishedSep 5, 2026ATby Archipelago TeamEN: Original onlyES: Reviewed translation