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Mayoyao, nestled within the mountainous province of Ifugao in the Philippines, presents a unique geographic context influencing its air quality. Situated at coordinates 16.9736, 121.2214, the municipality is deeply embedded within the Cordillera Central mountain range, characterized by steep slopes and terraced hillsides. This rugged terrain, sculpted over centuries by indigenous farming practices, dominates the landscape. The population of 15,621 is largely rural, dispersed across several barangays. Mayoyao’s elevation, averaging around 1,500 meters above sea level, contributes to cooler temperatures and increased cloud cover. While no major industrial zones exist within Mayoyao itself, the surrounding region is predominantly agricultural, focused on rice cultivation, particularly the famed Ifugao rice terraces. These terraces, while culturally significant, can contribute to localised dust and pesticide drift. The nearest significant urban centre is Baguio City, some distance away, meaning long-range transport of pollutants is less of an immediate concern than localised sources. The urban-rural gradient is very sharp; Mayoyao remains overwhelmingly rural, with limited vehicular traffic and industrial activity. Air quality is therefore more closely tied to agricultural practices and biomass burning for cooking and heating than typical urban pollutants. The surrounding forests play a role in filtering air, but deforestation in some areas could diminish this benefit.

Mayoyao experiences a pronounced wet and dry season, dictating the patterns of air quality throughout the year. The dry season, roughly from November to May, typically sees poorer air quality. This is due to increased agricultural burning as farmers prepare fields for planting, releasing particulate matter and other pollutants. Lower humidity during these months also means dust remains suspended longer. February and March are often the clearest months, but also see increased burning. The onset of the wet season, around June, brings significant improvements. Rainfall effectively washes pollutants from the atmosphere, and increased humidity suppresses dust. However, the wet season also brings increased cloud cover, which can trap pollutants near the ground, particularly in the valleys. August and September, peak monsoon months, can experience localised flooding and increased mould spore counts, impacting respiratory health. Temperature inversions, common at higher elevations, can exacerbate pollution events during calmer periods, trapping pollutants in the valleys. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit strenuous outdoor activity during the dry season and periods of stagnant air. Monitoring local fire reports is crucial during the dry months.