MANILA, Philippines — At least eight areas in Metro Manila are experiencing unhealthy air quality following a fire at a landfill facility in Navotas, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) said Saturday.
In an advisory, the DENR’s Environmental Management Bureau in the National Capital Region (EMB-NCR) reported that smoke from the Navotas Sanitary Landfill Facility has spread to nearby cities, significantly affecting air conditions across parts of the metropolis.
Among the areas recorded to have “very unhealthy” air quality were Caloocan, Malabon, Navotas, and portions of Quezon City, including the Manila Observatory compound and Commonwealth Avenue. San Juan City and other surrounding areas also experienced worsening air pollution levels as the smoke continued to disperse.
Authorities warned that the current air quality levels could pose serious health risks, particularly to vulnerable groups such as children, senior citizens, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions.
Residents in affected areas were advised to limit outdoor exposure, wear face masks, and keep windows and doors closed to minimize inhalation of polluted air.
The landfill fire continues to emit thick smoke, prompting concerns over both public health and environmental safety. Authorities are monitoring the situation closely as efforts to control and extinguish the fire remain ongoing.
Further updates are expected as officials assess the full extent of the incident and its impact on communities across Metro Manila.
