MANILA – The Department of Health (DOH) is rolling out medical assistance and psychosocial support to individuals impacted by the recent landfill fire in Navotas.
In a statement issued Saturday, the DOH said Health Secretary Ted Herbosa personally visited evacuees on Friday at a temporary shelter in Obando, Bulacan, where families displaced by the incident are currently staying.
While many residents expressed a desire to return home, the agency cautioned them about the ongoing health risks posed by the lingering haze from the fire.
The DOH said President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. had directed the agency to personally check on affected residents, with Herbosa explaining the potential dangers of prolonged exposure to polluted air.
Authorities also assured continuous coordination with local government units and other national agencies to address the needs of evacuees.
Meanwhile, residents who opted to stay near the landfill site will still be provided with medical services, including free consultations and blood testing.
The landfill blaze, which erupted on April 10, has significantly affected air quality in parts of Metro Manila.
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