Eighty percent of the Metro Manila population live in areas where the national standard for air quality is exceeded, where average TSP (total suspended particle) concentrations are frequently five times higher than the World Health Organization Air Quality Guidelines (WHO ACQ). Long-term measured lead levels also exceed both national and WHO AQC. Applying the essential components of an air quality management system to Metro Manila ' s pollution problem, the report suggests an action plan listing abatement measures for the short, medium, and long terms. Recommended actions fall under two categories: institutional and technical. A single institution with a clear mandate and sufficient resources should be made responsible for air quality management citywide. In addition, data gathering and processing capabilities should be improved. It is crucial that gross polluters be identified and penalized, diesel quality improved, and low-lead or unleaded gasoline made cheaper than leaded to encourage its use. Clean vehicle emissions standards should be introduced for all vehicle classes and enforced by vehicle inspection and maintenance. The sulfur content of heavy fuel should be reduced. Finally, awareness-raising through public and private organizations is key to bringing about policy changes.
