Air pollution is a significant environmental issue in the Philippines, where the recorded level of fine particulate matter is 24 micrograms per cubic meter (µg/m³), well above the recommended maximum level of 5 µg/m (WHO). One main cause of this issue is the activity of the Taal volcano, which erupted on multiple occasions from January 2020 to March 2022, causing disruptions in the region. Recently, on September 22, 2023, GMA News reported that the Taal Volcano was “emitting unhealthy levels of volcanic smog, also known as vog, which affected air quality around Metro Manila.” These continuous natural disasters along with the burning of fossil fuels such as coal/oil, and the limited development of transportation infrastructure, have resulted in negative impacts to both the environment and local population. 

Impact on Environment: 

1. Air Quality: Smog contains dangerous gasses such as sulfur dioxide (SO2), aerosols and other particulate matter, which can lead to poor air quality. This can  damage crops and soil quality, impacting agriculture and ecosystems near the volcano.

2. Water Quality: Ash and gasses can contaminate water sources, harming marine animals and access to clean water for nearby communities.