2026 IJRSE – Volume 15 Issue 9
Available Online: 5 May 2026
Author/s:
Parde, Gia Joy B.*
Central Bicol State University of Agriculture, Philippines (giajoy.parde@cbsua.edu.ph)
Pacala, Ruthie M.
Central Bicol State University of Agriculture, Philippines (ruthie.pacala@cbsua.edu.ph)
Ela Avellana, Joseph Clarence A.
Central Bicol State University of Agriculture, Philippines (josephclarence.ela-avellana@cbsua.edu.ph)
Abstract:
Ambient particulate matter (PM₁₀) is a critical air pollutant associated with respiratory and cardiovascular health risks. This study evaluated and compared annual PM₁₀ concentrations in selected highly urbanized (Naga and Legazpi Cities) and developing (Iriga and Ligao Cities) urban areas of the Bicol Region, Philippines, for 2024. Secondary air quality data from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Environmental Management Bureau Region V were analyzed using descriptive statistics to determine annual mean concentrations and assess compliance with the Philippine National Ambient Air Quality Guideline Value (60 µg/Ncm). The annual mean PM₁₀ levels ranged from 21 µg/Ncm in Legazpi City to 36 µg/Ncm in Naga and Iriga Cities, with an overall regional mean of 30.75 µg/Ncm. Group analysis revealed that developing cities exhibited a higher mean concentration (33 µg/Ncm) compared to highly urbanized cities (28.5 µg/Ncm), although all areas remained within the “Good” air quality category. Variations in PM₁₀ levels were attributed to local factors such as road dust resuspension, construction activities, and infrastructure development, rather than urban classification alone. These findings emphasize the need for sustained monitoring and proactive air quality management in developing urban centers to prevent deterioration as urban growth continues. The study provides insights for environmental policy planning and the prioritization of interventions to maintain public health protection under the Philippine Clean Air Act.
Keywords: PM₁₀, ambient air quality, urbanization, Bicol Region, Philippines, particulate matter
DOI: https://doi.org/10.5861/ijrse.2026.26114
Cite this article:
Parde, G. J. B., Pacala, R. M., & Ela Avellana, J. C. A. (2026). Ambient PM₁₀ levels in selected Bicol cities: A comparative study of highly urbanized and developing areas, 2024. International Journal of Research Studies in Education, 15(9), 245-251. https://doi.org/10.5861/ijrse.2026.26114
* Corresponding Author