New air quality monitoring tool installed at Burnham

A new air quality monitoring system has been installed at Burnham Park by the Environmental Management Bureau of the Dept. of Environment and Natural Resources Cordillera Administrative Region (DENR-CAR).

EMB-CAR OIC Regional Director Jean Borromeo, in a letter to City Environment and Parks Management Officer Rhenan Diwas said the system called Continuous Ambient Air Quality Monitoring System is capable of “real-time monitoring of air quality and can provide data on particulate matter (PM), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), ozone (O3) and carbon monoxide (CO).“Said monitoring station is significant in raising awareness on pollution levels and informing policy makers in formulating air quality management plans,” Borromeo said.

Mayor Benjamin Magalong and Diwas thanked the EMB-CAR for finally setting up the system saying this will significantly help in keeping track of the city’s ambient air quality providing guidance in the pursuit of programs and projects related to air pollution, environment, carbon reduction and climate change.

The new system which was unveiled last May 9, 2025 replaced the old damaged one previously used by the EMB-CAR. Another device still actively used is installed at the foot of Session Road.

Borromeo said this is pursuant to the operationalization of the BLISTT Airshed and the implementation of the Philippine Clean Air Act.

Diwas said aside from the monitoring systems provided by the EMB-DENR, the city has mobile air quality monitoring gadgets or sensors being used for self-monitoring purposes. These are stationed at Kisad Road, Harrison Road and UP Drive.With the information gathered, the city is guided on its air pollution control and traffic and transportation measures and the adjustments needed to be done. – Aileen P. Refuerzo