Bontoc, Southern Leyte — A grassfire broke out in Brgy. Buenavista on April 24, 2026, after a small fire reportedly set to burn garbage spread into nearby dry grassland. Authorities said the flames quickly expanded due to dry vegetation and intense heat, conditions worsened by the ongoing El Niño phenomenon.
While not the direct cause, the prolonged dry spell contributed to the rapid spread of the fire. Emergency responders from the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO), and the Philippine National Police (PNP) responded promptly and were able to contain the fire before it reached residential areas. No injuries or major property damage were reported.
The incident, however, highlighted the risks of open burning, especially during periods of extreme heat and drought. Local officials are reminding residents to avoid burning garbage and to observe fire safety precautions, as even small flames can escalate quickly under dry conditions.
The Local Government Unit of Bontoc also extended its appreciation to all responding agencies for their swift and coordinated action in managing the situation.