Baguio City – Plumes of smoke from burning forests continue to linger in the air as fires ravage mountains in Baguio and Benguet.
Efforts are underway to combat the six forest fire incidents being monitored as of Thursday, February 22.
Records from the Bureau of Fire Protection – Cordillera show that an estimated over 300 hectares have been affected by the ongoing blazes.
In Baguio City, the Philippine Military Academy area in Barangay Kias has been struck by fire, impacting an estimated area of 20 hectares. Authorities assure that the incident is now under control, as of Wednesday.
In Bokod, Benguet, fires in Sitio Banao and Sitio Bisal in Barangay Bobok have scorched around 200 hectares. To prioritize public safety amid the escalating fire, Mayor Thomas Wales Jr. has suspended all tourism activities within the town's borders.
Fire incidents caused damage to about 60 hectares in Sitio Minac and Sitio Adonot in Barangay Ambuklao, and affected roughly 20 hectares in Sitio Yapas in Barangay Bobok-Bisal.
In Sitio Binungaan, Tinongdan, Itogon, approximately 17 hectares were affected, while a separate fire in Millsite Sitio Camp 6, Barangay Camp 4, Tuba, damaged an estimated 5 hectares.
Local disaster response agencies are collaborating with various organizations and government departments to combat wildfires through ground-based firefighting efforts. These efforts involve coordination between fire stations, police, the military, environmental agencies, power companies, and volunteers.
Additionally, aerial firefighting using Bambi bucket systems is coordinated by military and civil defense groups in partnership with regional and provincial DRRM councils.
No fatalities have been recorded so far, and the authorities are still determining the cause of such incidents.
Protection against forest fire smoke and ash
In relation to the forest fires, the City DRRMO, through the City Health Services Office (CHSO), issued a health advisory for the public who may be at risk for smoke and ash exposure, which may irritate the nose, throat, and lungs.
“This smoke can hurt your eyes, irritate your respiratory system, and worsen chronic heart and lung diseases. They can make you cough or wheeze, and can make it hard to breathe,” the office added.
For health protection, the community nearby the fires are cautioned to cover their nose and mouth and wear N95 or P100 respirators or use multi-layered face masks; stay indoors or limit outdoor activities; protect your eyes from irritation that may result from exposure to ash and smoke; and drink water to stay hydrated.
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