Quezon City, Philippines—In light of recent data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) revealing that cardiovascular and respiratory diseases were leading causes of death in 2023, the Philippine Movement for Climate Justice (PMCJ) calls upon local and national authorities to elevate air quality standards for the protection of public health.
According to the PSA, ischemic heart diseases and neoplasms, including lung cancer, were the top causes of death, with cardiovascular and respiratory conditions exacerbated by prolonged exposure to particulate matter, a form of air pollutant. PMCJ stresses the need for increased vigilance and measures to address this pressing issue.
Ischemic heart diseases accounted for 44,770 cases (19.3% of total deaths), while neoplasms, including lung cancer, contributed to 24,066 deaths. Pneumonia ranked fifth at 13,462 cases, and hypertensive diseases, along with other heart and respiratory ailments such as tuberculosis, occupied the sixth to ninth positions. Particulate matter, specifically PM2.5 generated mainly from fossil fuel combustion, worsens these health conditions.
The current daily average concentration of PM2.5, as per local standards in 2024, exceeds the World Health Organization’s (WHO) recommendations. Dr. Benito Molino, resident medical expert of PMCJ, emphasizes that persistent exposure to poor air quality can have severe health consequences. He points out that while factors like genetics and lifestyle contribute to cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, the environment plays a significant role, evident in communities around industrial sites.
The plea to enhance air quality standards aligns with the anniversary of the petition requesting an investigation into the health impacts of liquefied natural gas (LNG) in Batangas. Reports of increased respiratory and cardiovascular diseases in areas hosting LNG power plants prompted this initiative.
Larry Pascua, senior energy campaign officer of PMCJ, underscores the urgency of addressing the health crisis. He challenges denials from the Batangas City Health Office (BCHO) and the Department of Health (DOH), emphasizing the immediate threat to the well-being of communities living in proximity to pollutant sources.
Local concerns have been voiced regarding the negligence of health offices. William Bugtong, chairman of Batangueño for Health and Clean Air for All, stresses the urgent need for prioritizing the health of Batangas residents given their proximity to pollution sources.
In a unified appeal, PMCJ calls on both the local health office of Batangas and the national government to take decisive actions to mitigate the health risks associated with poor air quality. | PMCJ
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