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Sebaste, Antique, Philippines, nestled on the northwestern coast of Panay Island, presents a unique geographic profile significantly influencing its air quality. Located at approximately 11.59° N, 122.09° E, the municipality sits within a gently sloping coastal plain, transitioning to rolling hills inland. Its elevation averages around 15-30 meters above sea level, minimizing the potential for significant vertical mixing of air pollutants, a factor that can exacerbate ground-level concentrations. Sebaste’s proximity to the Sulu Sea dictates a maritime climate, characterized by high humidity and frequent sea breezes. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of agricultural land – primarily rice paddies and coconut plantations – interspersed with small-scale fishing communities. To the east, the terrain rises gradually, forming part of the central mountain range of Antique. This topography can channel winds, potentially concentrating pollutants in localized areas. While large-scale industrial activity is absent in Sebaste itself, it lies within a region experiencing increasing agricultural intensification, which can contribute to ammonia emissions and particulate matter from burning agricultural waste. The urban–rural gradient is relatively smooth, with the poblacion (town center) exhibiting a denser concentration of residences and small businesses, while the surrounding barangays maintain a predominantly rural character. The prevailing winds, generally from the southwest during the wet season, and the northeast during the dry season, play a crucial role in dispersing or trapping pollutants, directly impacting local air quality.

Sebaste’s tropical climate dictates a distinct wet and dry season, profoundly impacting its air quality profile. The wet season, typically spanning from June to November, brings frequent rainfall and increased humidity, generally leading to improved air quality due to pollutant washout. However, periods of prolonged rainfall can also result in stagnant air conditions, particularly during the tail end of typhoons, potentially trapping pollutants released from agricultural burning. The dry season, from December to May, often sees clearer skies but also increased temperatures. This can lead to temperature inversions, especially during the early morning hours, where cooler air becomes trapped beneath a layer of warmer air, preventing vertical mixing and concentrating pollutants near the ground. Agricultural burning, a common practice for land clearing and crop residue disposal, is most prevalent during the transition months (April-May) as farmers prepare for the planting season, significantly elevating particulate matter levels. Fog, though infrequent, can also occur during the cooler months, further reducing visibility and trapping pollutants. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during periods of agricultural burning and when temperature inversions are likely, typically in the early morning hours. During the wet season, while overall air quality is generally better, periods of heavy rainfall and associated flooding can release mold spores and other allergens, impacting respiratory health. The monsoon winds, particularly during the southwest monsoon (Habagat), can bring cleaner air from the western seas, but also occasionally carry dust and pollutants from distant sources. Careful monitoring of local weather patterns and agricultural practices is essential for managing air quality risks.