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Calbiga, Samar, Philippines, occupies a unique and challenging geographic position within the Eastern Visayas region. Situated at approximately 11.63° N, 125.02° E, the municipality sprawls across a rugged, mountainous terrain, significantly influencing its urban character and air quality dynamics. The town is nestled within the Calbiga Mangrove Forest, a vast and ecologically significant area, the largest in Eastern Visayas, which acts as a natural buffer against coastal storms but also contributes to local humidity. Elevation varies considerably, rising sharply from the coastal plains to peaks exceeding 600 meters, creating localized microclimates and influencing air circulation patterns. The surrounding landscape is dominated by dense forests and agricultural lands, primarily focused on coconut and rice cultivation, with smaller pockets of corn and root crops. This agricultural activity, while vital to the local economy, can contribute to particulate matter through burning practices, particularly during land preparation. Calbiga’s proximity to the Philippine Sea exposes it to prevailing easterly winds, which can transport pollutants from other regions, although the mountainous terrain often disrupts these flows. The urban–rural gradient is pronounced; the town center exhibits a modest concentration of residential and commercial buildings, while the majority of the population resides in dispersed rural settlements. The limited industrial activity, primarily small-scale workshops and agricultural processing, generally minimizes direct industrial emissions, but the reliance on traditional cooking methods using wood and charcoal in many households remains a factor affecting local air quality. The complex interplay of topography, vegetation, and agricultural practices shapes Calbiga’s atmospheric environment.

Calbiga’s tropical climate dictates a distinct wet and dry season, profoundly impacting its air quality profile. The dry season, typically spanning from March to May, often sees a slight increase in particulate matter concentrations. This is largely attributable to agricultural burning practices as farmers prepare fields for planting, releasing smoke and ash into the atmosphere. While prevailing easterly winds generally disperse pollutants, periods of calm weather and temperature inversions, more common during these months, can trap these particles near the ground, leading to localized episodes of reduced visibility and potential respiratory irritation. The wet season, from June to November, brings frequent rainfall and high humidity, which naturally scavenges pollutants from the air, resulting in generally improved air quality. However, intense storms can temporarily disrupt this cleansing effect, stirring up dust and debris. The monsoon season, particularly in October and November, is characterized by prolonged periods of rainfall, significantly reducing particulate matter. Fog, while infrequent, can occur during cooler periods, particularly in the higher elevations, trapping moisture and potentially exacerbating the effects of any existing pollutants. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, particularly during periods of agricultural burning. Limiting outdoor exertion and avoiding areas with visible smoke are advisable. During the wet season, while air quality is generally better, vigilance regarding potential allergens carried by the humidity remains important. Maintaining indoor air quality through proper ventilation is always recommended.