MANILA, PHILIPPINES (15 December 2003) - ADB has released the last US$100 million for the Metro Manila Air Quality Improvement Sector Development Program being implemented by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) after achieving significant reductions in lead and sulfur dioxide levels.
A recent study showed improvements in blood lead levels among children in Metro Manila compared to 2000 when the unleaded gasoline policy was first implemented. Lead poisoning reduces intelligence quotients, especially in children. At its worst, the level of lead exposure in Metro Manila can cause an average loss of five IQ points in children as well as heart disease and premature death.
"Despite many challenges, the Government has made significant progress with the program and has achieved the benchmark reforms it set for the release of this second and last tranche," notes Yue-Lang Feng, the senior ADB officer in charge of the program.
"The Government will continue its efforts as air quality management and improvement is a long-term process."
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