A thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science, School of Environment Resources and Development

Thesis (M.Sc.) - Asian Institute of Technology, 2005

The impetus of the conforming development in the global arena stimulates critical effect on a susceptible living environment. Air pollution, a by-product of rapid development particularly in urbanized zones, throws a gamut of detrimental impacts that is alarming on both environment and human health. It is a predicament that results from the activities meshed from the changes in social, demographic and economic structure that is relative to urbanization. Influenced by these changes, cities are typically prone to pollution disturbances. The changing mode of living in the cities besets demand for transportation that is associated with fuel combustion and other industrial activities. Such condition fosters air quality to degrade causing considerable impacts. Relative to air pollution are its underling effects on human health, quality of life and the environment. Control mechanisms such as policies, emission reduction technologies and economic measures have been developed to control pollution from its sources. In practice of a comprehensive approach to environmental problems, public participation is considered a vital aspect in addressing the urban problems including air pollution. The call for public participation is widely practiced among nations that believe in redistribution of power among its citizens. The research describes the extent of air pollution problem in city of Puerto Princesa, a fast growing urban area that is under the threat of pollution problems due to the increasing number of transportation vehicles. The intensity of CO emission that comes from the public transport vehicle was studied. The research discusses local initiatives conducted by the local government of Puerto Princesa in response to air pollution. A well known case in Local Agenda 21, the research analyzed the intensity and the quality of public participation in the development of local policy and programs. The paper concludes that a number of improvements should be made in the local policy of the city. Participation should also be intrinsically observed and the quality of management equipped with public awareness was seen as a vital tool in improving the quality of air in the city.