DPWH helps extinguish Navotas landfill fire

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Public Works and Highways has deployed backhoes, bulldozers and dredgers to support efforts in putting out the fire at an inactive sanitary landfill in Navotas, DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon said.

Dizon inspected the response operations at the burning waste facility yesterday as the government ramps up efforts to contain the fire that has affected nearby communities, in response to President Marcos’ directive to provide immediate assistance.

Toxic smog from the landfill has reached parts of Bulacan, prompting the evacuation of around 3,000 residents from two island communities in Barangay Salambao in Obando town.

According to the Office of Civil Defense, 111 families have been relocated to evacuation sites, which include Obando National High School and the municipal evacuation center.

Air quality in Obando and Meycauayan towns has reached “unhealthy levels,” with authorities advising residents to wear N95 face masks to protect against toxic emissions.

The Bureau of Fire Protection earlier admitted to facing challenges as the burning site lies on an island that can only be accessed by boat. Fire trucks have to be transported on roll-on/roll-off vessels.