The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has assured the public that the haze currently observed over Cebu will not disrupt the upcoming Asean Summit scheduled for May. While security remains a top priority for this international event, officials emphasized that environmental safety for all world leaders and delegates is equally important.
Safety Inside the Summit
Jose Cleo Cary Colis of the DENR explained on Thursday, April 23, 2026, that the haze does not pose a major concern for summit activities. Most meetings and events will take place inside hotels and specialized halls. "The delegates will mostly stay indoors, which is safer because our air-conditioning systems have filters," Colis said. He added that outdoor time will be limited to minimize exposure to current air conditions.
Health Advice for the Public
Although delegates are protected indoors, the DENR urges the general public to remain cautious. Air quality monitoring shows fluctuating pollutant levels. The Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) reported high PM2.5 concentrations—very fine dust and smoke particles—in Talisay City on Thursday. These pollutants persist due to calm winds and local emissions from vehicles and factories.
Understanding the Risks
Health experts warn that PM2.5 particles are dangerous because they can be inhaled deep into the lungs and even enter the bloodstream, potentially causing serious health issues such as asthma attacks, heart disease, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions face the highest risk.
How to Protect Yourself
The DENR-EMB strongly recommends wearing high-quality masks like N95 or KN95 instead of regular cloth masks, which are often insufficient to filter out microscopic PM2.5 particles found in haze. The government will continue monitoring air quality throughout the summit to ensure safety for both visitors and locals.
