Congressman pushes for strict implementation of CAA

Philippine Congressman Francis Escudero is pushing for stricter implementation of emission standards and higher penalties for violators of the Clean Air Act (CAA). Escudero cited a World Bank study showing that close to 5,000 Metro Manila residents, or 14 people daily, die from pollution-related diseases such as pneumonia in children, cardiopulmonary disease and lung cancer. Under the Clean Air Act, owners and drivers of motor vehicles found to be violating emission standards face fines not exceeding Php2,000 (US$40.92) for the first offense; a fine not exceeding Php4,000 (US$81.84) for the second offense; and a one-year suspension of the Motor Vehicle Registration (MVR) and a fine not exceeding Php6,000 (US$122.76) for the third offense. Based on data from the World Bank’s Philippine Environment Monitor, Metro Manila has a Total Suspended Particulates (TSP) level–a measurement used to determine air quality–that is often five times higher than the World Health Organization Air Quality Guidelines. Particulate emissions are largely from motor vehicles (84%), solid waste burning (10%) and industries (5.5%). (June 21, 2009)