President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. expressed gratitude to Japan for immediately sending technical experts to assist Philippine authorities in addressing the prolonged fire at the Navotas Sanitary Landfill.
During his bilateral meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on Thursday, May 29, at the Akasaka State Guest House in Tokyo, Marcos acknowledged Japan’s swift response to the environmental incident that affected several communities in Metro Manila and Bulacan.
“We also value Japan’s prompt deployment of technical experts to address the fire at the Navotas Sanitary Landfill, reflecting once again the responsiveness and practical value of our partnership when it matters most,” Marcos said.
The landfill fire raised health concerns among residents after thick and toxic smoke spread across nearby areas, including Malabon and Obando, Bulacan, disrupting daily activities.
According to Marcos, Japan deployed a disaster relief expert team that provided assistance in firefighting operations, air quality monitoring and waste management measures aimed at controlling the blaze.
The President also emphasized Japan’s continued support for the Philippines in times of difficulty, particularly on issues involving maritime security and energy stability.
“Time and again, Japan has demonstrated its steadfast support for the Philippines, particularly in periods of heightened challenges,” he said.
“From its timely expressions of support on maritime developments to its concrete assistance in addressing the global energy situation, including ensuring continued fuel supply and extending support for our energy needs,” he added.
Marcos earlier visited Obando on May 21, where he explained the challenges faced by responders in extinguishing the landfill fire. He noted that the dump site was extremely deep, making it difficult for water from firetrucks to reach the source of the flames underground.
Instead, authorities resorted to covering the area with wet soil to suppress the fire.
The President also warned about the dangers posed by the smoke coming from the landfill.
“It’s not like ordinary smoke coming from burning wood or something similar. There are all sorts of things underneath that,” Marcos said.