It is strictly regulated.
Open burning in the Philippines is prohibited under national environmental laws, with exceptions granted only under stringent conditions. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) enforces Republic Act No. 8749 (Clean Air Act) and Republic Act No. 9003 (Ecological Solid Waste Management Act), which classify open burning as a prohibited activity unless authorized. Local government units (LGUs) may impose additional restrictions, and violators face fines up to ₱1 million or imprisonment under DENR Administrative Orders. Recent 2026 compliance shifts emphasize stricter monitoring via the Environmental Management Bureau’s (EMB) digital permitting system.
Key Regulations for Open Burning in Philippines
- Prohibition under RA 8749: Open burning of household, agricultural, or industrial waste is banned unless exempted under DENR guidelines, with penalties including fines and criminal liability.
- LGU Enforcement: Cities and municipalities may impose stricter local ordinances, such as permitting requirements for controlled agricultural burning, subject to EMB approval.
- Waste Management Act (RA 9003): Mandates segregation and prohibition of open burning in dumpsites, with LGUs required to implement waste diversion programs by 2026.