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San Jose, Antique, Philippines, nestled on the island of Panay, presents a unique geographic profile significantly influencing its air quality. Located at approximately 10.74° N, 121.94° E, the city sits within a predominantly rural landscape, transitioning from coastal plains to gently rolling hills. Antique's western coastline, where San Jose resides, is characterized by a mix of sandy beaches and rocky headlands, offering some natural ventilation from prevailing winds. The surrounding terrain is largely agricultural, with rice paddies and coconut plantations dominating the immediate vicinity, contributing to occasional biomass burning during harvest seasons. The city’s elevation is relatively low, averaging around 10-30 meters above sea level, which can exacerbate the trapping of pollutants, particularly during periods of stable atmospheric conditions. While San Jose isn't directly adjacent to major industrial zones, it benefits from its position within the wider Panay region, which includes industrial activity in Iloilo City, approximately 100km to the northeast. This proximity means that pollutants can be transported via prevailing winds, though typically diluted by the distance. The urban–rural gradient is gradual, with small settlements and agricultural land seamlessly blending into the city’s periphery. The proximity to the Visayan Sea also influences local weather patterns, bringing moisture and occasional sea breezes that can help disperse pollutants, but also contribute to humidity and fog, which can trap them under certain conditions. The overall geography creates a complex interplay of factors affecting air quality, balancing natural ventilation with potential for pollutant accumulation.

San Jose, Antique experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons, profoundly impacting its air quality. The dry season, typically spanning from November to May, often sees a slight increase in particulate matter due to agricultural burning practices associated with land preparation and crop residue disposal. While controlled burns are common, they can contribute to localized air pollution episodes. The wet season, from June to October, brings frequent rainfall and increased humidity, generally leading to improved air quality as precipitation washes away pollutants and higher humidity can trap them. During the transition months (May/June and October/November), atmospheric stability is often greatest, increasing the likelihood of temperature inversions. These inversions trap cooler air near the ground, preventing vertical mixing and allowing pollutants to accumulate. Fog, common during the wet season, can also exacerbate this effect, particularly in low-lying areas. The monsoon season (July-September) brings strong winds and heavy rainfall, which usually provide a significant cleansing effect, dispersing accumulated pollutants. Outdoor activities are generally more favorable during the wet season, particularly after rainfall events. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season and transition periods, limiting prolonged outdoor exposure during periods of visible smoke or haze. Agricultural workers should be particularly mindful of air quality during burning seasons, utilizing appropriate respiratory protection when necessary. The interplay of rainfall, wind patterns, and temperature inversions dictates the seasonal air quality narrative in San Jose.