In a decisive move to address a mounting waste management emergency, the Cebu City Council has unanimously endorsed the reopening of a section of the closed Binaliw landfill. This action is framed as an urgent and practical response to the city's escalating garbage disposal challenges, which include soaring costs and a growing backlog of waste.
Council Approves Motion for DENR-EMB Assistance
During its regular session on Monday, February 23, 2026, the Council approved a motion seeking support from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources–Environmental Management Bureau (DENR-EMB) Region 7. Councilor David Tumulak formally requested that DENR-EMB 7 recommend remedial measures or identify a suitable alternative disposal site. He also urged regulators to expedite compliance assessments with rehabilitation requirements to facilitate a swift resumption of operations.
Short-Term Solution with Stricter Safeguards
Councilor Philip Zafra, who seconded the motion, revealed that he had discussions with Mayor Nestor Archival. According to Zafra, the landfill operator, PWS, has committed to allocating a three-hectare portion of its property to temporarily accept and manage the city's waste. The company aims to resume operations by March, pending regulatory approval. Zafra emphasized that reopening Binaliw, with enhanced security and environmental protections, represents the best short-term solution available.
Financial and Logistical Pressures Mount
The urgency stems from a fire incident that has doubled disposal costs. Previously, fees at Binaliw were P1,100 per ton, but they have surged to P3,906 per ton, including hauling, fuel, labor, and tipping fees at the Aloguinsan site. Tumulak warned that if this situation persists until year-end, waste disposal expenses could reach P1.2 billion, far exceeding the city's allocated budget of P517 million.
Interim Measures and Community Concerns
As a temporary stopgap, Pond A at the South Road Properties (SRP) is currently being used as a holding area where waste is consolidated before being transported out of the city. However, this has sparked concerns among nearby residents and workers due to foul odors and potential health impacts.
Regulatory Hurdles Remain
Despite official efforts, the reopening of Binaliw is not immediate. Approval from DENR and robust evidence demonstrating the site's safety are still required to prevent a recurrence of the tragedy that occurred in January. The Council's motion underscores the critical need for a balanced approach that addresses both environmental safety and the pressing waste crisis.
