DENR, SM Prime partner to combat air pollution with state-of-the-art monitoring facility

December 5, 2024
1:03PM PHT

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources Environmental Management Bureau National Capital Region (DENR EMB-NCR) and SM Prime Holdings Inc. (SMPHI) have unveiled a cutting-edge Air Quality Monitoring Station (AQMS) in Quezon City, marking a significant step in addressing air pollution in Metro Manila.

The AQMS, located in SMPHI’s Matandang Balara property, was donated by SM Prime under the bureau’s Adopt-a-CAMS (Continuous Ambient Air Monitoring System) Program.

It is designed to measure particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5) and transmit real-time data to the EMB-NCR’s central database via the Data Acquisition and Handling System (DAHS). This capability allows for timely responses to air quality concerns in the National Capital Region.

DENR and SM Prime officials launched the Air Quality Monitoring Station in Quezon City. (From left) Engr. Phil Kreisky V. Tobias, Maria Cecille Pangilinan, and Arvin B. Araojo Jr. from SMPHI; Gemma G. Cariño, chief of the finance and administrative division; Orliber D. Paule, senior assistant vice president of SM Philippines - estate management; Engr. Maria Dorica Naz-Hipe, EMB-NCR regional director; Engr. Divina C. Camarao, chief of the clearance and permitting division; Atty. Linel C. Manayang, OIC of the environmental monitoring and enforcement division; Jennilyn C. Vicente, chief of the ambient monitoring and technical services section;  Jovel L. Rogando, head of the ambient air unit; Engr. Rhean Gelyn M. Ramos, senior environmental management specialist; and Mary Kris A. Amores, environmental management specialist.

“Land use and urban planning drive mobility-based and stationary emissions sources. These, in turn, have public health and climate change implications for people, ecosystems and environments. Everyone is stakeholder in the air we breathe and the quality of our living conditions. This donation reflects the importance of collective action to tackle air pollution and protect public health,” Environment Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo Loyzaga said.

Loyzaga also highlighted AQMS’ importance in shaping evidence-based policies for sustainable development.

SMPHI, one of Asia’s largest integrated property developers, joined the program to align with the Philippine Clean Air Act (RA 8749) and promote the country’s sustainability goals.

“By participating, SMPHI sets an example for corporations to actively contribute to environmental protection and public welfare,” Loyzaga added.

The AQMS is expected to strengthen EMB-NCR’s air quality monitoring capabilities while encouraging data-driven policymaking to address pollution and improve the living conditions of Quezon City residents.

Featured News
Explore the latest news from InsiderPH
Tuesday, 24 June 2025
Insight to the one percent
© 2024 InsiderPH, All Rights Reserved.