Manileños are urged to limit outdoor exposure and wear face masks as “very unhealthy” air quality was recorded in parts of Manila on Saturday, April 18, largely due to smoke from the Navotas landfill fire.

Based on the 12 noon air quality update under the Asia Blue Skies Project, three monitoring stations, Anda Circle, San Sebastian Residences, and Sta. Ana Hospital, registered “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” (UFSG) levels. Meanwhile, the station in Puregold Tayuman recorded a “Very Unhealthy” air quality level.

The Manila Public Information Office (PIO) told Manila Bulletin that prevailing wind conditions are pushing smoke from the Navotas landfill toward the capital, worsening air quality in several areas.

“Southward ang direction ng hangin kaya ang usok mula sa Navotas landfill ay napupunta sa direksyon ng Maynila (The wind is blowing southward, causing the smoke from the Navotas landfill to drift toward Manila)."

Authorities warned that such conditions may pose health risks, particularly to vulnerable sectors, and advised residents, especially children, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with respiratory illnesses, to stay indoors and avoid prolonged outdoor exposure.

The Manila local government said it continues to monitor the situation closely to ensure the health and safety of residents, urging the public to remain alert and await further updates.