Boac Air Quality Index (AQI)

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Boac, the capital of Marinduque Island in the Philippines, occupies a geographically unique position within the archipelago. Situated at coordinates 13.4500° N, 121.8300° E, the city’s landscape is dominated by rolling hills and verdant valleys, a consequence of its location on a relatively young volcanic island. The terrain is moderately steep, sloping gently towards the coastline, which is characterized by small coves and beaches. Boac Bay, a sheltered inlet, provides a natural harbor and influences local weather patterns. The island’s central region is largely rural, comprising agricultural lands primarily dedicated to rice cultivation and livestock farming, creating a distinct urban–rural gradient. While Boac itself is a modest urban center, it serves as a regional hub for Marinduque, with limited light industrial activity concentrated around the port area, mainly involving processing of agricultural products. The surrounding landscape is predominantly agricultural, with patches of secondary forest on the higher slopes. The island’s isolation, being relatively distant from major industrial belts in Luzon, initially suggested a pristine environment. However, localized agricultural practices, vehicle emissions from the growing population, and occasional maritime traffic contribute to localized air quality concerns. Elevation varies within the city, ranging from sea level to approximately 200 meters, impacting ventilation patterns and potentially leading to localized temperature inversions, particularly during calmer periods. The proximity to the Taytay Bay and the open waters of the Philippine Sea influences prevailing winds and dispersal of pollutants.

Boac’s tropical climate dictates a wet and dry season, significantly influencing air quality dynamics. The dry season, typically spanning from November to May, often sees a slight improvement in air quality due to increased wind speeds and solar radiation, which aids in pollutant dispersion. However, this period can also experience periods of stagnant air, particularly during anticyclonic conditions, leading to localized build-up of pollutants from agricultural burning and vehicle emissions. The wet season, from June to October, brings frequent rainfall and higher humidity. While rainfall naturally scavenges pollutants from the atmosphere, the increased humidity can trap particulate matter, especially during periods of reduced wind. The southwest monsoon (Habagat) brings stronger winds during July and August, generally improving air quality by flushing out pollutants. Fog, a relatively infrequent occurrence, can form in the valleys during cooler nights, trapping pollutants and reducing visibility. Agricultural burning, a common practice during the dry season to clear land for planting, is a significant contributor to particulate matter pollution. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during periods of agricultural burning and when fog is present. During the transition months (May/June and October/November), air quality can be variable, influenced by shifting wind patterns and the interplay between the dry and wet seasons. Outdoor activities are generally more favorable during the peak of the dry season (February-April) and during periods of strong monsoon winds.