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Talisay, Camarines Norte, Philippines, occupies a strategically important coastal position on the western side of the Bicol Peninsula. Situated at approximately 14.1356° N, 122.9244° E, the city’s geography is characterized by a gently sloping terrain transitioning from the coastal plains to rolling hills inland. Its elevation ranges from near sea level along the shoreline to approximately 150 meters at its highest points, influencing local wind patterns and potential for temperature inversions. The city borders the Pacific Ocean, providing a significant influence on humidity and prevailing winds, often bringing moisture-laden air from the east. Surrounding Talisay is a mosaic of agricultural land, primarily dedicated to rice cultivation and coconut farming, interspersed with small-scale fishing communities. To the east, the landscape rises into forested hills, contributing to localized microclimates. While Talisay itself is a relatively small urban center with a population of around 27,244, it benefits from its proximity to Naga City, a regional hub, creating a gradual urban-rural gradient. The absence of large-scale industrial zones within Talisay itself mitigates some pollution risks, however, agricultural practices, particularly the burning of crop residue after harvest, can contribute to localized particulate matter. The coastal location also makes the city susceptible to saltwater intrusion and potential impacts from marine-borne pollutants, though these are generally less significant than inland sources. The prevailing winds, often influenced by the monsoon seasons, play a crucial role in dispersing or concentrating pollutants within the area.

Talisay’s tropical climate dictates a distinct wet and dry season, profoundly impacting air quality. The wet season, typically spanning from June to November, brings frequent rainfall and high humidity, generally leading to improved air quality as precipitation washes away particulate matter and dilutes gaseous pollutants. However, periods of prolonged rainfall can also increase mold and fungal spore concentrations, affecting respiratory health. The dry season, from December to May, presents a different scenario. Reduced rainfall and increased sunshine hours lead to drier conditions, increasing the potential for dust and particulate matter to become airborne. Agricultural burning, a common practice after the harvest of rice and coconut crops, significantly contributes to elevated levels of smoke and particulate pollution during this period, particularly in March and April. Temperature inversions, where cooler air is trapped beneath a layer of warmer air, are more frequent during the dry season, especially in the early morning hours. These inversions prevent the vertical mixing of air, trapping pollutants near the ground. Fog, occasionally occurring during the cooler months, can also exacerbate this effect. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, particularly on days with agricultural burning or when fog is present. Limiting outdoor activities during peak pollution times, such as early mornings, and wearing masks can help mitigate exposure. The monsoon winds, while bringing rain, can also carry pollutants from distant sources, occasionally impacting air quality even during the wet season.