Calls for Legal Action Against Indonesia in lieu of Haze Gain Momentum Online

The haze crisis in Southeast Asia has spread further, with thick smoke from forest fires in Kalimantan blanketing parts of Metro Manila. Photos shared by ABS‑CBN News on Aug 31 showed the skyline shrouded in a grey layer, with buildings barely visible even at 5.50pm. 

The city appeared unusually dark as visibility dropped sharply.

Atmospheric physicist Dr Gerry Bagtasa explained that the smoke was carried by southwest monsoon winds, locally known as Habagat. 

He warned that hazy conditions could last several days, though rainfall later in the week may help clear the skies. The images quickly went viral, drawing millions of views online.

Interestingly, some of the strongest criticism came from Indonesians themselves. Social media users called on Malaysia, Singapore, Brunei, and the Philippines to take legal action against their government, accusing it of incompetence in handling recurring forest fires.

Others lamented that Indonesia had become the source of a regional problem affecting its neighbors.

Filipinos also shared their experiences, noting how the haze obscured familiar views and made Manila appear like dawn at dusk. 

The episode highlights the persistent challenge of transboundary haze, a recurring issue that continues to frustrate communities across Southeast Asia.