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Abucay, Bataan, Philippines, occupies a strategically important position within the Central Luzon region, nestled on the western slopes of Mount Mariveles, a significant volcanic peak forming part of the Bataan Peninsula. Its coordinates (14.7222, 120.5354) place it within a landscape characterized by a gradual urban–rural gradient. The municipality’s terrain is predominantly hilly, transitioning from agricultural lowlands closer to Manila Bay to steeper, forested areas higher up the mountain slopes. This topography significantly influences local air circulation patterns; cool, dense air tends to settle in the valleys, potentially trapping pollutants, while prevailing winds from the West Philippine Sea can bring in maritime air, sometimes carrying dust and salt particles. Abucay’s proximity to Manila Bay (approximately 15km) means it’s susceptible to influences from the greater Manila urban area, including potential transport of industrial emissions and vehicle exhaust. The surrounding landscape is a mix of agricultural fields – primarily rice and corn – and patches of secondary forest, contributing to both biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOCs) and potential fugitive dust emissions from agricultural practices. The Bataan National Park, located nearby, provides a natural air filter, but its effectiveness is dependent on wind direction and prevailing meteorological conditions. The town’s location, bridging coastal plains and mountainous terrain, creates a complex microclimate impacting air quality, with elevation playing a key role in pollutant dispersion.

Abucay’s tropical climate dictates a wet and dry season, profoundly impacting its air quality profile. The dry season, typically spanning November to May, often sees a slight increase in particulate matter due to reduced rainfall and increased agricultural activity, including burning of crop residues – a common, though often regulated, practice. Dust from nearby construction sites and unpaved roads also contributes during this period. The wet season, from June to October, brings frequent rainfall and higher humidity, generally leading to improved air quality as pollutants are washed from the atmosphere. However, periods of prolonged rainfall can sometimes lead to stagnant air conditions, particularly in the lower-lying areas, potentially trapping pollutants released from local sources. During the transition months (May/June and October/November), temperature inversions are possible, where cooler air becomes trapped beneath a layer of warmer air, hindering vertical mixing and concentrating pollutants near the ground. Fog, more common during the cooler months, can also exacerbate this effect. Sensitive groups, such as children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season and be mindful of potential air quality impacts from agricultural burning. Outdoor activities are generally more favorable during the wet season, but vigilance is still advised during periods of stagnant air or fog. The monsoon season, bringing strong winds, can temporarily improve air quality by dispersing pollutants, but also carries the risk of increased dust and marine aerosols.