A large forest fire broke out in the mountainous area of Barangay Samoki in Bontoc, Mountain Province on Sunday night, April 19, 2026, prompting emergency response efforts and sustained monitoring by authorities, as reported by RH Romy Gonzales.

Local officials, residents, and personnel from the Bureau of Fire Protection remained on alert since the blaze was first reported at around 1 a.m. on Sunday, with firefighting operations continuing into the night.

Authorities said firefighters have been conducting aggressive suppression efforts, including the establishment and maintenance of fire lines and clearing operations near residential areas, pig pens, and storage structures located uphill within the community.

The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office said several privately owned water sources were affected by the fire, further complicating response efforts. Plastic PVC water pipes were also destroyed, contributing to a reported water shortage in the area. Officials said the situation was worsened by an ongoing fuel-related crisis in Barangay Samoki.

As of last report, no injuries have been recorded. The total area affected by the forest fire has yet to be determined, while authorities continue to assess the extent of the damage.