They have told people to stay indoors as much as possible.
On Saturday, the Environmental Management Bureau – National Capital Region (EMB-NCR) of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) issued an advisory following the fire incident at the Navotas Sanitary Landfill, Navotas City.
The said notice was released while conducting initial Rapid On-Site Validation and aerial assessments via drone to identify areas affected by the fire and mapping the affected barangays to ensure the safety of residents in the immediate vicinity and those situated downwind.
Meanwhile, as the raze is expected to release potentially harmful air pollutants, the office said that the public in affected barangays are encouraged to remain inside their homes with windows and doors closed.
They were also told to suspend outdoor activities, sports, and classes in areas where smoke or odors are prevalent, temporarily.
For those that need to go outdoors, residents are told to use an N95 mask or an equivalent respirator. This is strongly advised for high-risk individuals, including children and infants, elderly, pregnant women, and Individuals with pre-existing heart or lung conditions (e.g., asthma, COPD).
As of April 11, 2026, the air quality monitoring in parts of Metro Manila also flagged “Acutely Unhealthy” levels of fine particulate matter (PM 2.5), with coarse particles remaining “Fair” levels. But they warned that the smaller particles pose a significant health risk.
At the Navotas City Hall, PM 10 was at 125 µg/Ncm (fair); while the PM 2.5 was at 90 µg/Ncm (acutely unhealthy)
In Brgy. Tañong, C4 Malabon, the PM 10: 122 µg/Ncm (fair); while the PM 2.5 was also “acutely unhealthy” at 76.55 µg/Ncm.
Lastly, the Punturin Senior HS in Valenzuela saw PM 10: 111 µg/m³ (fair).
When air quality is Acutely Unhealthy, the DENR-EMB, everyone is advised to reduce outdoor activity and strenuous exercise, stay indoors and rest if you have pre-existing heart or lung conditions (like asthma), and avoid unnecessary travel.
“Be aware of potential restrictions on driving and industrial work in affected zones,” it also noted. “Please stay vigilant, wear appropriate masks if you must go out, and keep your windows closed to maintain better indoor air quality.”