Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko” Moreno Domagoso on Monday tasked the Manila Health Department (MHD) and the city’s health centers to carry out respiratory health programs, following a fire that struck the Navotas Sanitary Landfill on Saturday.

The fire emitted a thick smoke, affecting the air quality in Metro Manila and nearby areas.

Health centers in Districts 1 and 2, in particular, were instructed to implement the program to safeguard Manileños in these areas from potential health risks.

Domagoso ordered MHD Officer-in-Charge Dr. Grace Padilla to implement the program as soon as possible, especially for people with asthma and other respiratory problems.

On Saturday, the Manila City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Department advised all Manileños to wear facemasks when going outdoors.

As of Sunday morning, the Anda Circle, Puregold Tayuman, San Sebastian Residences, and Sta. Ana Hospital areas are reportedly at the “Fair” Air Quality Index (AQI). On Saturday, the Puregold Tayuman area was deemed “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” such as children, senior citizens, pregnant women, and individuals with respiratory problems.