In an effort to control air pollution and improve local air quality, former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo instructed the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) and other transport-related agencies to formulate a National Environmentally Sustainable Transport Strategy (NEST) for the country. The formed body promotes the development of Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) systems, expansion of urban rail network in Metro Manila and deployment of hybrid vehicles in the public transport fleet, among others.

This is in support of the 1987 Philippine constitution which made a landmark provision for the environment and sustainable development by stating that it is ?the policy of the State to protect and advance the right of the Filipino people to a balanced and healthful ecology in accord with the rhythm and harmony of nature?.

In 1999, the Philippine Clean Air Act (RA8749) formalized the policy on air protection. The law not only set air quality standards but also provides that the DENR together with DOTC, DTI and other concerned agencies and LGU?s prepare and implement national plans. Furthermore, RA8749 pronounced that the state shall promote and protect the global environment to attain sustainable development while recognizing the primary responsibility of local government units to deal with environmental problems. It also recognizes the principle that ?polluters must pay? and finally, that a clean and healthy environment is for the good of all and should therefore be the concern of all.

DENR Administrative order No. 2000-81 proclaims that it is the policy of the state to (1) protect and advance the right of the people to a balanced and healthful ecology in accord with the rhythm and harmony of nature (2) attain and maintain a balance between development and environmental protection and (3) maintain a quality of air that protects human health and welfare. This prompted the formulation and implementation of the the Integrated Air Quality Improvement Framework for a comprehensive air pollution management and control program. The framework prescribes the emission reduction goals using permissible standards, control strategies and control measures to be undertaken within a specified time period, including cost effective use of economic incentives, management strategies, collective action, and environmental education and information. The Framework is to be adopted as the official blueprint with which all government agencies must comply with to attain and maintain ambient air quality standards.

In the end, it is the citizens compliance that will make any law to be successful. Enforcement of any law rests on the government but if we, the citizens, do not adhere to it, we are not helping our government and are not helping our environment. Actions always speak louder than words.