MANILA, April 12 (Xinhua) -- Metro Manila has been shrouded in thick haze for days due to a landfill fire, local media reported Sunday.
The fire broke out on April 10 in Navotas City, spreading smoke across multiple cities and severely affecting air quality. Air Quality Index (AQI) readings on Saturday classified air conditions as "unhealthy" to "acutely unhealthy," according to local media.
Metro Manila local governments, including Quezon City, advised residents to stay indoors, use air purifiers or wear N95 masks, warning that prolonged exposure poses health risks to children, the elderly, pregnant women and those with respiratory illnesses.
According to a statement from the Navotas City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, the landfill is not owned by the Navotas City Local Government Unit, and its operations ceased in August 2025. At present, the incident is being referred to as a rubbish fire in the waste mass of the landfill, and the exact cause remains under investigation.
Authorities said Sunday that the fire has been brought under control. The landfill is located on an island off Navotas City, complicating firefighting efforts. The duration of the haze will depend on the fire and weather conditions. ■