When air quality matters: awareness, perception, and attitude of the residents in Metro Manila, Philippines

Metro Manila is the financial and political heart of the Philippines. Research indicates Metro Manila's annual average PM_2.5 concentration is among the highest globally, often exceeding US EPA and the country’s standards. The high levels of air pollutants in the ambient air of Metro Manila and the related illnesses have led to the need to prepare for the improvement of air quality. The public’s knowledge and awareness of environmental issues are crucial for their participation in reducing and mitigating air pollution. Thus, this study examined the level of awareness, perception, and attitude of residents in Metro Manila towards air quality and its health effects. To meet the objective of this study, a total of 57 questions were applied to a questionnaire given to 593 respondents from Metro Manila. In terms of the level of awareness of the respondents, 54.1%, 69.6%, and 54.4% of the respondents are unaware of the air quality laws, standards, and policies governing emissions from vehicles and other businesses, respectively. Likewise, the majority of the respondents are not aware of the air quality programs of the government, except the anti-smoke belching. Respondents perceive that air pollution ranges from extensive to very extensive at 37.8% and 50.8%, respectively. Metro Manila residents express concern over air quality and a positive attitude to contribute to developing behaviors that are kind toward the environment. However, the lack of information on air quality status, programs, and laws, particularly in Metro Manila may hinder individual-related behavioral change to reduce air pollution in the Philippines. Hence, the study recommends that all leading governmental agencies that manage air quality should intensify their information drives about current trends and effects of air pollution and incorporate mitigating measures to reduce air pollution in educational efforts to encourage individuals to act.