Authorities in Ilocos Norte have declared that the fire in the mountainous areas of Barangay Barbaquezo and Virbira is now under control. The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP)-Ilocos Norte made the announcement on Friday, January 31, while continuing heli-bucket operations to prevent a resurgence of the blaze.
According to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)-Ilocos Norte, the fire has affected approximately 287 hectares of land, including 50 hectares under the National Greening Program.
According to a Manila Bulletin report, firefighting efforts are being supported by personnel from the Carasi Police Station, led by Police Capt. Janery Samoden, and the 102nd Infantry Battalion. Meanwhile, Office of Civil Defense (OCD)-Ilocos Director Laurence Mina is closely monitoring the situation and has met with Carasi Mayor Robella Gaspar.
The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) and Tactical Operations Group-1 have deployed two air assets to aid in fire suppression, with another on standby. On the ground, the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (MDRRMC) has set up an Incident Management Team led by MDRRM Officer Marc Stanley Bulil-lit.
Photos from the OCD show thick smoke engulfing the area as authorities worked to contain the fire throughout the night. Efforts remain focused on preventing the flames from spreading to Mount Lammin in Piddig, an emerging tourist spot and home to the largest coffee plantation in Ilocos.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation. Carasi, where the fire occurred, is located about 40 kilometers east of Laoag City and 524 kilometers north of Manila.
