PBBM SONA promise drives DENR-Caraga’s pursuit of mobile AC system
By Mariesh F. CeledeΓ±a
BUTUAN CITY (PIA) —In fulfillment of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s call during his 2024 State of the Nation Address (SONA), the Department of Environment and Natural Resources- Environmental Management Bureau (DENR-EMB) Caraga recently carried out a Mobile Air Conditioning (MAC) system testing in Butuan City.
In his 2024 SONA, Pres. Marcos Jr. highlighted the need for climate adaptation and mitigation measures particularly in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and addressing the effects of climate change.
This MAC system testing is aligned with the president and the bureau’s efforts to ensure compliance with Republic Act No. 8749, or the Philippine Clean Air Act of 1999, and Republic Act No. 6969, also known as the Toxic Substances and Hazardous and Nuclear Waste Control Act of 1990. Both laws are crucial in regulating toxic substances, hazardous waste, and air pollutants.
The MAC system is the air conditioning unit installed in motor vehicles to cool the interior. The system uses chemicals called refrigerants that can harm the environment.
A total of 13 vehicles were randomly selected for testing using a Chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) identifier, operated by EMB personnel. Each vehicle owner received printed test results and was briefed on the significance of the findings, helping to strengthen public understanding of ozone layer protection and air quality standards.
The testing focused on verifying the use of ozone-friendly refrigerants in vehicle air conditioning systems and aimed at reducing harmful emissions that contribute to air pollution and ozone layer depletion.
According to Petronio Arciga, air focal person of EMB Caraga, older vehicle models use harmful refrigerants like CFC-12 or Freon-12, which contribute significantly to environmental degradation, particularly ozone layer depletion. On the other hand, newer vehicle models are equipped with ozone-friendly refrigerants such as R-134a, which are more environmentally sustainable.
He further encouraged vehicle owners to include Mobile Air Conditioning (MAC) system testing in their regular preventive maintenance schedule to ensure compliance with environmental regulations.
This proactive initiative underscores EMB Caraga’s dedication to promoting cleaner air and healthier communities. By fostering awareness and ensuring adherence to environmental regulations, the bureau continues to play a key role in safeguarding the environment and advancing sustainable practices across the region. (MFC. PIA Butuan City with a report from EMB Caraga)
