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Gerona, Tarlac, Philippines, occupies a strategically important position within the Central Luzon region, a vital agricultural and industrial corridor. Situated at approximately 15.6069° N, 120.5986° E, the city’s geography is characterized by a gently sloping terrain, transitioning from the Central Luzon Valley towards the Zambales Mountains to the west. This gradual elevation change, averaging around 20-30 meters above sea level, influences local wind patterns and can contribute to localized air quality challenges. The city is bordered by agricultural lands, primarily rice paddies and farms cultivating various crops, a significant factor in potential particulate matter emissions. To the east, it connects to broader transportation networks, including national highways, facilitating the movement of goods and people, and consequently, vehicular emissions. The Agno River, though not directly adjacent, plays a role in the regional hydrological cycle, influencing humidity and potentially affecting the dispersion of pollutants. Gerona’s urban character is primarily residential and commercial, with a developing industrial sector concentrated along the highway corridors. The urban–rural gradient is relatively smooth, with agricultural areas seamlessly blending into the city’s periphery. The surrounding landscape is dominated by flat, fertile plains, punctuated by occasional small hills. This relatively open terrain, while generally favorable for air dispersion, can also allow for the transport of pollutants from neighboring industrial areas and agricultural burning practices, impacting Gerona’s air quality.

Gerona’s tropical climate dictates a distinct wet and dry season, profoundly impacting its air quality profile. The dry season, typically spanning November to May, often witnesses a gradual increase in particulate matter concentrations. This is largely attributable to agricultural practices; farmers frequently employ controlled burning of rice straw and other crop residues to prepare fields for the next planting cycle. While regulated, these practices can release significant amounts of smoke and particulate matter into the atmosphere, particularly during periods of lower wind speeds. The wet season, from June to October, brings monsoon rains and increased humidity, generally leading to improved air quality as rainfall effectively washes away pollutants and higher humidity traps particulate matter. However, periods of prolonged rainfall can also lead to localized flooding, potentially releasing pollutants from stagnant water sources. Temperature inversions, though less frequent than in temperate climates, can occasionally occur during the cooler months (December-February), trapping pollutants near the ground, especially in localized areas. Fog, while rare, can exacerbate this effect. During the dry season, particularly March and April, outdoor activities should be approached with caution, especially for individuals with respiratory sensitivities. The elderly, children, and those with pre-existing lung conditions are advised to limit prolonged exposure to outdoor air, especially during the morning hours when agricultural burning is most prevalent. During the wet season, while overall air quality is generally better, vigilance regarding potential waterborne illnesses is crucial.