Mt Apo still on fire in Davao responder's video

FOREST FIRE. Firefighters face difficulty in completely putting out Mt Apo forest fire because of the difficult terrain. Screengrab from Harry Camoro's video

MANILA, Philippines – Members of the Davao Regional Incident Management Team (DRIMT) have found another fire breakout at Mt Apo, on Thursday, March 31.

In the video posted on their Facebook page, smoke can be seen rising from several sections of the mountain, near its peak. In places where smoke is visible, the trees and other foliage are burnt brown.

Digos City disaster risk reduction and management chief Harry Camoro filmed the mountain while on an aerial reconnaissance mission.

According to Camoro, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) provided aerial support to help put out the fire, but operations stopped due to poor visibility.

Ground efforts included establishing firelines to prevent the spread of the fire and water spray teams deployed.

Several forest fires have already erupted in the past 5 days. However, firefighters have had difficulty in completely putting out because of the difficult terrain. (READ: Fire-hit Mt Apo cleared of climbers)

Camoro said the trails leading up to the fire are difficult to climb, the vegetation too thick, and the source too near the cliffs for firefighters to get close.

He reiterated the call for donations, saying they needed logistical support, tools – bolos (machetes), shovels, and pikes in particular – and other utilities like gloves, chainsaws, and food.

Interested donors and volunteers are requested to stage at the Digos City disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM) office, and contact Camoro, via 0928-2773908, or Rye Glenn of Mindanao Mountaineers, via 0929-5989049.

Do you want to become an information advocate and join the Agos community? Email move.ph@rappler.com to get more details! – Rappler.com