144 fire incidents from Jan. to Apr. Logged in Region CAR; over 600 hectares affected 

Tabuk City, Kalinga – The Bureau of Fire Protection–Cordillera Administrative Region (BFP–CAR) has reported a total of 144 fire incidents across the region from January to April 10, 2026, affecting 644 hectares of forests and grasslands.

As the dry and summer season sets in, forests and grasslands become increasingly vulnerable to fires that may spread rapidly due to dry vegetation, strong winds, and prolonged lack of rainfall.

According to BFP–CAR, through local media, the causes of the fires are still under investigation, noting that it is too early to determine their exact origins. Data from the agency showed that 63 forest fires burned approximately 384.83 hectares (ha), while 81 grass fires affected around 259.56 ha across various provinces.

Of the total number, Benguet recorded the highest number of forest fires at 38, followed by Mountain Province with 19 and Abra with 6. In terms of damaged areas, Benguet also logged the largest forest area affected at over 293 ha, with an estimated ₱108,000 in losses.

Mountain Province recorded 91 ha of forest damage, while Abra reported no forest area damage despite the incidents.

Meanwhile, for grass fires, Mountain Province logged the highest number of cases at 36, followed by Kalinga with 19 and Benguet with 15. Kalinga sustained the largest grassland damage at 112.12 ha, followed by Mountain Province with 74.95 ha and Benguet with 29.43 ha. Minimal damage was reported in the remaining areas.

Other provinces with recorded incidents but no publicly reported damages include Ifugao, Baguio City, Abra, and Apayao.

In 2025, only 13 forest fires were recorded in the region during the same period, highlighting a significant increase in 2026 and signaling a growing risk to forests and communities.

Authorities are urging residents living near forests and grasslands to exercise caution, particularly when burning waste, and to ensure that no fire is left unattended—especially during the dry season when conditions can easily fuel the spread of flames.