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Llorente, a municipality in Eastern Samar, Philippines, occupies a coastal position along the Pacific Ocean at coordinates 11.4125°N, 125.5458°E. The terrain is predominantly characterized by rolling hills and narrow coastal plains, typical of the Samar island landscape. Elevation is generally low-lying, contributing to limited natural dispersion of pollutants. The town’s location directly on the Pacific coastline exposes it to prevailing winds and seasonal typhoons, which, while offering some atmospheric flushing, can also transport marine aerosols and potentially pollutants from wider regional sources. Llorente’s economy is largely agrarian, with rice farming and fishing as primary livelihoods. Surrounding the urban center are extensive agricultural lands, where seasonal burning for land preparation is common. While not heavily industrialized, small-scale processing of agricultural products contributes to localized emissions. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp; the poblacion represents a concentrated area of activity, while the surrounding areas remain largely rural. This proximity to both the ocean and agricultural zones significantly influences the local air quality profile, creating a unique blend of marine and biomass-related pollutants. The limited topographical features hinder pollutant dispersal, concentrating emissions within the municipality.

Llorente experiences a pronounced wet and dry season, dictating the annual air quality narrative. The dry season, typically from March to May, sees a peak in particulate matter due to agricultural burning practices preparing fields for planting. Reduced rainfall means less atmospheric cleansing, and stable atmospheric conditions can lead to localized pollutant build-up. Winds during this period are generally weaker, further hindering dispersion. The onset of the wet season in June brings relief, with frequent rainfall effectively washing pollutants from the air. However, increased humidity can also promote the formation of mold and mildew, impacting indoor air quality. The period from November to January is particularly vulnerable to typhoons. While these storms offer temporary flushing, they can also stir up dust and debris, and damage infrastructure, potentially releasing pollutants. February generally offers the most favourable conditions, with moderate temperatures and breezes. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor exposure during the peak dry season (March-May) and exercise caution during and after typhoons. Monitoring wind direction during burning season is crucial for avoiding smoke plumes.