Haze linked to Indonesia wildfires reaches parts of Luzon

Abi Sarabia M., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
September 01, 2026

Photo courtesy: ABC News

Haze or smoke linked to widespread forest fires in Kalimantan, Indonesia has reached parts of Luzon, while prevailing winds could carry the smoke toward more areas of the Philippines, including portions of the Visayas.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Environmental Management Bureau has reported haze over parts of Metro Manila, Calabarzon and Mimaropa, with authorities monitoring its possible connection to ongoing wildfires in Kalimantan.

Reports indicate that dry conditions and the prevailing southwest monsoon, or habagat, are helping push smoke from Borneo northward toward the Philippines.

Regional haze monitoring has also detected moderate to dense smoke coming from clusters of fire hotspots in Kalimantan, particularly in West Kalimantan, as prolonged dry weather continues to fuel fires in parts of Indonesia.

Depending on wind direction and weather conditions, areas that could potentially experience haze include Mimaropa, Metro Manila, Central and Southern Luzon, the Bicol Region and large portions of the Visayas.

Among the areas being watched are Palawan, Mindoro, Metro Manila, Bataan, Pampanga, Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, Rizal, Batangas, Quezon, the Bicol Region, Antique, Aklan, Capiz, Iloilo, Cebu, Bohol, Leyte, Samar and Negros.

Authorities, however, continue to monitor the actual movement and concentration of the haze, as conditions may vary depending on winds, rainfall and the intensity of the fires in Indonesia.

Haze may contain fine particles and other pollutants that can irritate the eyes, nose and respiratory system.

Children, senior citizens and people with asthma, lung disease or other respiratory conditions may be more vulnerable to its effects.

Residents in areas experiencing poor air quality are advised to limit unnecessary outdoor activity, stay indoors when possible, keep windows and doors closed, and wear a properly fitted face mask when going outside.

Motorists are also advised to exercise caution, particularly in areas where haze becomes thick enough to reduce visibility.

Authorities continue to monitor air quality and weather conditions as wildfire activity in Kalimantan persists and prevailing winds remain capable of transporting smoke across national borders.