Governor Pamela Baricuatro has issued a directive for provincial and district hospitals in Cebu to remain on heightened alert due to haze affecting several areas of the province. This precautionary measure aims to address potential health issues arising from the poor air quality, as confirmed by Cebu Provincial Information Office head Ainjeliz "AJ" dela Torre-Orong on Monday, April 20, 2026.
Health Monitoring and Precautionary Actions
Orong emphasized that hospital chiefs and doctors have been notified to stay vigilant for any health-related concerns linked to the haze. She clarified that this move is purely precautionary and not intended to alarm the public. Currently, no cases associated with the haze have been recorded, but authorities are taking proactive steps to ensure readiness.
Emergency Operations and Coordination
The Emergency Operations Center under the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) is now operating on a 24-hour basis to monitor the situation. Governor Baricuatro is awaiting further recommendations from the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) and the Department of Health (DOH) before issuing a formal memorandum. Additionally, she regularly seeks updates from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to assess environmental factors contributing to the haze.
Mayor Archival's Warnings and Recommendations
Mayor Nestor Archival of Cebu City has warned that the haze poses significant health risks, particularly for vulnerable individuals such as those with pre-existing conditions. He attributed the haze to a combination of stagnant air, high temperatures, and pollution from vehicles and other sources, which has led to the accumulation of dirty air over the city.
Safety Measures for Residents
To mitigate risks, Mayor Archival advised residents to:
- Limit outdoor activities and stay indoors as much as possible.
- Wear facemasks when going outside to reduce inhalation of pollutants.
- Avoid burning waste, as open burning can worsen air quality and increase fire hazards.
He reiterated the strict prohibition on open burning and called for proper waste management practices instead of incineration.
Community Mobilization and Environmental Efforts
Mayor Archival has instructed the Barangay Affairs Office (BAO) to mobilize barangay environmental officers across the city. Their tasks include disseminating information and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations, especially the ban on waste burning. Furthermore, he encouraged the public to reduce vehicle usage by consolidating errands or opting for walking to minimize emissions.
This coordinated response highlights the local government's commitment to safeguarding public health and addressing environmental challenges amid the ongoing haze situation in Cebu.
