Forest fire hits Eastern Samar’s Homonhon Island

A grass and forest fire broke out on Homonhon Island in Guiuan, Eastern Samar, prompting authorities to deploy aerial firefighting operations.

In a statement issued Monday, the Philippine Air Force said it deployed an S-70i Black Hawk helicopter in the affected area on Sunday.

Equipped with a helibucket system, the aircraft carried out precision water drops over affected areas and completed nine sorties.

“Despite sustained operations, the fire has not yet been declared “fire out,” with responders continuing sustained suppression operations on the ground and from the air,” the PAF said.

“The PAF, alongside partner agencies and LGUs, remains actively engaged in efforts to contain and fully extinguish the blaze,” it added.

According to the PAF, the operation reaffirmed the military’s unwavering dedication to public service. — Joviland Rita/RSJ, GMA News