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Maigo, nestled within the province of Lanao del Norte in the Philippines, occupies a geographically significant position on the island of Mindanao. Located at approximately 8.15°N latitude and 123.97°E longitude, the municipality benefits from a relatively low elevation, contributing to a warm, humid tropical climate. The terrain surrounding Maigo is characterized by rolling hills and fertile plains, typical of the region’s volcanic origins. The municipality is situated inland, approximately 20 kilometers from the coast of Iligan Bay, meaning direct marine influences on air quality are lessened, but humidity remains consistently high. The surrounding landscape is predominantly agricultural, with rice paddies and coconut plantations dominating the rural areas. While Maigo itself isn’t heavily industrialized, its proximity to Iligan City, a significant industrial hub, introduces potential for transboundary pollution. The urban-rural gradient is pronounced; the poblacion (town center) exhibits denser development, while outlying barangays remain largely agricultural. This gradient impacts air quality, with localized concentrations of pollutants likely higher near roadways and commercial areas within the poblacion. The prevailing winds, influenced by the Philippine monsoon system, play a crucial role in dispersing or concentrating pollutants, depending on seasonal shifts.

Maigo experiences a distinct wet and dry season, heavily influencing its air quality. The dry season, typically from February to May, sees a peak in particulate matter pollution. Reduced rainfall means less atmospheric cleansing, and agricultural activities like land preparation and burning of crop residue contribute significantly to PM2.5 and PM10 levels. Hotter temperatures during these months can also exacerbate ground-level ozone formation. Conversely, the wet season, spanning June to November, generally brings improved air quality. Frequent rainfall effectively washes pollutants from the atmosphere, and higher humidity can suppress dust. However, the monsoon winds can also transport pollutants from neighboring areas, including industrial zones in Iligan City. December and January represent a transitional period, with fluctuating rainfall and moderate pollution levels. Fog formation, common during cooler mornings, can trap pollutants near the ground, temporarily worsening air quality. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit strenuous outdoor activity during the dry season, particularly in March and April. During the wet season, while overall air quality is better, caution is advised during periods of strong winds, as these can carry pollutants from distant sources.