Palace warns of forest fires as El Niño looms

The Palace is warning the public to be extra careful as the expected effects of El Niño could increase the risk of forest fires in the country.

Civil Defense Undersecretary Harold Cabreros said the government is monitoring the possible effects of extreme heat, including a rise in forest fires.

“One of which, ang nakikita natin ay magkakaroon ng increase ng forest fires,” Cabreros said during a Palace press briefing.

He urged the public to cooperate with government efforts, including water and energy conservation, as the country enters the dry season.

Cabreros said forest fires are among the possible “cascading effects” of El Niño, aside from concerns involving health, food and energy.

“So iyon po ang isang titingnan natin iyong mga cascading effects ng El Niño. Aside from iyong sa health concerns, sa ating mga food and, of course, energy, but also sa mga ganoong pangyayari katulad ng forest fires,” he said.

The government is continuing to monitor the situation and coordinate preparations for the possible impacts of El Niño.IMT