Capital city in Metro Manila, Philippines
Air quality in Manila
Very polluted
The annual average PM2.5 in Manila was 29 µg/m³ in 2016, about 5.8 times the WHO guideline of 5 µg/m³. Traffic fumes keep PM2.5 elevated year-round, worst in the dry months; check IQAir on heavy days.
Key facts
- PM2.5: 29 µg/m³ yearly average (2016). Measured at Manila.
- PM10: 118 µg/m³ (2016).
- Worst months: Jan–Mar.
- Recent average: 21 µg/m³ over the last five years of measurements.
PM2.5 by year
| Year | Annual average |
|---|---|
| 2016 | |
| 2015 | |
| 2014 |
Air quality across Philippines
Quick answers
Is the air in Manila bad?
Very polluted: 29 µg/m³ of PM2.5 on average, 5.8× the WHO guideline. It's usually worst in Jan–Mar.
When is the air worst in Manila?
Traffic fumes keep PM2.5 elevated year-round, worst in the dry months; check IQAir on heavy days.
How does Manila compare with the rest of Philippines?
People in Philippines breathe 22 µg/m³ of PM2.5 on average (2023, World Bank/WHO), against 29 µg/m³ measured here.
More about Manila
Going to Manila solo?
SoloSquare is where travelers, nomads and locals in Manila meet up for small plans: coffee, dinners, walks and day trips. Join one, or start your own in a minute.
Sources
- WHO Ambient Air Quality Database
- WHO air quality guidelines (2021)
- Live air quality map (WAQI)
- Manila International Airport Authority (NAIA)
- LRT-1 (Light Rail Manila Corporation)
- Grab Philippines
- Department of Tourism
Annual averages are measured values reported to the WHO; check a live map for today's air. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.