Navotas: The government is providing medical services and psychosocial support to residents affected by the Navotas landfill fire, the Department of Health (DOH) said on Saturday. In a statement, the agency said Health Secretary Ted Herbosa visited on Friday the evacuation center in Obando, Bulacan, where residents near the razed landfill are currently housed.

According to Philippines News Agency, most of the residents expressed the desire to return home, but the DOH cautioned against the health risks and dangers posed by the lingering haze from the fire. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. ordered the DOH to personally check on the residents on Friday, and Health Secretary Ted Herbosa explained that the haze from the fire poses health risks.

The DOH is in constant communication with local government units and other national government agencies to address the needs of affected residents. Those who have chosen to stay in their residences near the landfill will also receive medical services, including blood tests and free consultations.

A massive fire broke out at the landfill facility on April 10, leading to deteriorated air quality across parts of Metro Manila.