Tech
Kunak Air Monitoring Station tracking Kalibo’s air quality
Kalibo, Aklan — The recently inaugurated KUNAK Air Monitoring Station in Kalibo is now fully operational, providing minute-by-minute readings of key air pollutants that affect both public health and the environment. The project, jointly implemented by the Laudato Si Aklan Wing, the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Kalibo, West Point Technologies, and the Ministry of Ecology of the Diocese of Kalibo, was formally launched with a ceremonial ribbon cutting and blessing on August 14, 2025.
The KUNAK system continuously measures a suite of air quality indicators including ozone (Oโ), sulfur dioxide (SOโ), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), total suspended particulates (TSP), particulate matter (PMโ, PMโ.โ
, PMโโ), total particulate carbon (TPC), carbon monoxide (CO), and ambient noise levels.
Initial Findings: Air Quality Within Safe Limits
From September 3 to 25, 2025, the monitoring data showed that Kaliboโs air quality remains within allowable limits based on the DENR Clean Air Act standards (DAO 2000-81).
Ozone (Oโ) — Average: 30 ยตg/mยณ; Range: 25โ38 ยตg/mยณ.
A gas composed of three oxygen atoms, ozone protects us in the upper atmosphere but becomes harmful near the ground. High levels can cause coughing, throat irritation, and worsen asthma. Kaliboโs levels were well below the 1-hour limit of 140 ยตg/mยณ.
Particulate Matter (PMโ.โ
and PMโโ) — Median: 8 ยตg/mยณ and 10 ยตg/mยณ, respectively.
These are tiny solid and liquid particles from dust, smoke, and combustion. PMโ.โ
can penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream, causing heart and lung diseases. Current values were far below the standards (50 ยตg/mยณ for PMโ.โ
and 150 ยตg/mยณ for PMโโ).
Sulfur Dioxide (SOโ) — Average: 150 ยตg/mยณ.
A colorless gas with a sharp odor, it comes from burning fossil fuels. It irritates the eyes, nose, and lungs and contributes to acid rain. Kaliboโs level was within the 24-hour limit of 180 ยตg/mยณ.
Total Suspended Particulates (TSP) — Average: 20 ยตg/mยณ; Range: 10โ30 ยตg/mยณ.
These airborne particles contribute to haze and visibility reduction. Larger particles irritate the eyes and throat, while smaller ones affect breathing. The readings were well below the 230 ยตg/mยณ limit.
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) — Average: 40 ยตg/mยณ; Range: 0โ90 ยตg/mยณ.
VOCs easily evaporate from fuels, paints, and cleaning agents. Some, like benzene and formaldehyde, are carcinogenic. They also react with nitrogen oxides under sunlight to form ground-level ozone. Kaliboโs readings were within normal range but occasionally peaked during daytime hours.
Total Particulate Carbon (TPC) — Average: 75 ยตg/mยณ.
This includes organic carbon and black carbon from combustion. Black carbon absorbs sunlight and contributes to global warming, while organic carbon can scatter light and affect climate balance. Both are linked to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.
Faith, Science, and Environmental Stewardship
According to Laudato Si Aklan Wing, the KUNAK station represents an integration of faith-based environmental advocacy and scientific monitoring. It supports Pope Francisโ call in Laudato Si to care for the common home through data-driven and community-centered ecological action.
โThe KUNAK system allows us to turn awareness into action,โ said representatives from the Ministry of Ecology. โBy knowing whatโs in our air, we can educate the public, protect health, and guide local policy decisions.โ
The continuous data collected will help the LGU of Kalibo and partner institutions track pollution trends, assess the impact of urban activities, and strengthen Aklanโs commitment to clean air and climate resilience.
