THE Department of Environment and Natural Resources is conducting assessment of the overall damages and land area of the three-day forest fire along Akiki trail of Mount Pulag in Kabayan, Benguet.
Victor Gorinto, superintendent of Mount Pulag National Park Protected Area said they are still conducting assessment as personnel of their office assigned to go in the area are having difficulties to reach the place.
Based on the ocular inspection, Gorinto disclosed close to five hectares were damaged.
In a report by the Police Regional Office-Cordillera, the forest fire occurred in Sitio Tinuping, Eddet, Kabayan.
A call informed the Bureau of Fire Protection based in Kabayan of the ongoing forest fire and upon confirmation, Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office emergency personnel proceeded to the Akiki trail ranger station.
Responders noticed the fire scene has already widely spread to different directions. Park rangers informed the responders of at least six to eight-hour hike is needed to reach the area due to lack or no trail leading to the fire scene.
On November 14, two teams composed of Kabayan Fire Station personnel arrived at Abucot Proper, where the fire was distantly visible and noticed that small amount of smoke from the scene.
On the same day, at around 11 a.m., fire responders declared fire out with no casualties and damage structures reported.
Investigation added from barangay Kagawad Julian Sumakey stated the origin of fire started 6 a.m of November 12, Monday at the creek bed of Sitio Tinuping.
Mount Pulag is the third highest mountain the country at 9,922 feet above sea level and home to many specifies of highland flora and fauna.
Last January, the mountain was closed to hikers following a fire coming from a portable butane gas stove of a hiker.