Massive Blaze Engulfs Navotas Landfill, Sending Toxic Smoke Over Metro Manila

A major fire erupted at a landfill in Navotas on Tuesday, sending towering plumes of thick, potentially toxic smoke billowing over parts of Metro Manila and prompting a large-scale emergency response.

Firefighters from multiple stations battled the blaze for hours as it consumed piles of refuse at the disposal site. The dense smoke, visible from several districts, raised immediate public health concerns due to the likely presence of hazardous materials burning within the waste.

Authorities have cordoned off the area and are advising nearby residents, particularly those with respiratory conditions, to keep windows closed and limit outdoor exposure. An investigation into the cause of the fire is now underway.

"Our teams are working to contain the fire and prevent it from spreading further. We urge the public to avoid the area for their safety," a fire official stated at the scene.

The incident has disrupted normal operations at the landfill and is expected to impact waste management services for the surrounding communities in the coming days.