Cebu Landfill Tragedy: P50K Initial Aid and Ongoing Benefits Processing for Victims' Families
Families of the fatalities in the recent Binaliw landfill incident in Cebu City have received P50,000 in initial cash assistance from the facility operator, Prime Integrated Waste Solutions Inc. (Piwsi). Government agencies are now actively processing burial benefits, survivorship pensions, and work-related compensation as investigations into the tragic event continue.
Comprehensive Support and Worker Protection Measures
According to Marites Mercado, chief of the Department of Labor and Employment (Dole) 7 Tri-City Field Office, Piwsi has committed to covering funeral, burial, cremation, and medical expenses for affected workers. The company will also pay full January salaries despite suspended operations at the Barangay Binaliw site.
Dole 7, the Social Security System (SSS), and the Dole-Employees’ Compensation Commission have conducted inspections and coordination meetings to ensure worker protection and assistance following the incident that killed 36 of the 118 identified workers.
"All workers are covered by SSS, Philhealth and Pag-Ibig and their benefits are now being processed on a priority basis," Mercado stated during a forum on Friday, January 23, 2026.
Employment Status and Alternative Opportunities
Workers remain on floating status and have not been terminated. Discussions are currently underway to transfer them to other stations while the investigation proceeds. Dole 7 has coordinated with Public Employment Service Offices in Cebu City, Mandaue City, and Lapu-Lapu City to assist workers seeking temporary or alternative employment during this challenging period.
Environmental Violations and Ongoing Investigations
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources has issued a cease and desist order against Piwsi for alleged environmental violations. Dole is actively determining possible liabilities and penalties, including whether safety standards were violated at the landfill site.
The role of subcontractors remains under review, as they have yet to appear before Dole officials due to their current focus on assisting victims and their families. The comprehensive investigation continues to unfold as authorities work to ensure accountability and prevent similar tragedies in the future.
