Residents in several parts of Metro Manila are being advised to take precautions following a landfill fire in Navotas that has affected air quality in nearby areas.
The fire, which broke out on the evening of April 10, 2026, at the Navotas Sanitary Landfill in Barangay Tanza, has since been contained, but smoke and haze have lingered for days after the incident.
Photo: John Rey Tiangco/Facebook
Authorities, including the Department of Health (DOH) and the Environmental Management Bureau–NCR (EMB-NCR), have warned that the haze may pose health risks, especially with prolonged exposure.
What’s the current situation?
While the Bureau of Fire Protection reported that the blaze was contained by April 12, 2026, suppression efforts are still ongoing to address remaining hotspots. The Navotas local government has also coordinated with the Philippine Air Force, which deployed helicopters for aerial water drops to help control the fire.
“Nakipag-ugnayan ang LGU Navotas sa Philippine Air Force, na nagdeploy ng dalawang helicopter para sa aerial water bucket drop operations upang makatulong sa pag-apula ng apoy. Magpapatuloy muli ang aerial operations… upang matiyak ang tuluyang pagkontrol sa mga natitirang hotspot at usok,” the office said.
Despite some improvement in air quality readings, several areas continue to experience reduced air quality due to lingering smoke.
Monitoring by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has classified the air quality in Valenzuela City as hazardous for all residents. Meanwhile, cities such as Caloocan, Malabon, Marikina, and Quezon City, as well as parts of Bulacan, have recorded levels considered unsafe for sensitive groups.
Why does the haze matter?
According to the DOH, haze consists of very fine particles from smoke and ash that can travel deep into the lungs and potentially enter the bloodstream.
Exposure may lead to symptoms such as:
- Coughing
- Difficulty breathing
- Chest pain
- Eye irritation
It may also worsen existing respiratory conditions, such as asthma and other lung diseases.
What precautions are being advised?
Authorities are encouraging residents in affected areas to take extra care while air quality remains compromised.
“Residents in affected barangays are encouraged to remain inside their homes with windows and doors closed,” the EMB-NCR advised. “We recommend the temporary suspension of outdoor activities, sports, and classes in areas where smoke or odors are prevalent.”
Recommended measures include:
- Staying indoors as much as possible
- Keeping windows and doors closed
- Sealing openings with damp cloths
- Avoiding outdoor activities, including sports and classes, when smoke or odor is present
- Wearing an N95 mask or similar respirator if going outside
Extra caution is advised for children, the elderly, pregnant individuals, and those with pre-existing heart or lung conditions.
Motorists are also advised to use headlights or fog lights when visibility is reduced.
Ongoing monitoring
Government agencies continue to monitor air quality levels and assess the situation on the ground. Investigations into the cause of the landfill fire are also ongoing.
Residents are encouraged to stay updated through official advisories and to seek medical help if they experience symptoms related to smoke exposure.
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