The Philippine Air Force (PAF) has escalated its firefighting operations on Homonhon Island in Eastern Samar, deploying a Black Hawk helicopter for continuous water-bombing missions as authorities struggle to contain a fast-moving grass and forest fire that remains active as of April 20, 2026.
Working closely with the Office of Civil Defense Region VIII, the PAF began aerial suppression efforts on April 19, conducting multiple heli-bucket sorties to slow the spread of the blaze. Despite sustained operations, officials have yet to declare the fire under control, prompting a round-the-clock response both on the ground and in the air.
Earlier in the day, two separate missions were flown, completing a total of 15 water-drop sorties—an indication of the military’s sustained operational push to contain the flames.
Authorities said the situation remains under continuous assessment, with the fire still posing a threat to nearby areas. The PAF, alongside local government units and partner agencies, remains on full deployment to prevent further damage and safeguard communities in the affected zone.