In Cebu City, recovery efforts continue as workers clear steel beams from the rubble of the collapsed waste facility in Barangay Binaliw. This cleanup, documented on Monday, January 12, 2026, is part of ongoing search, rescue, and retrieval operations for victims still missing after the devastating landslide on January 8.
Independent Investigation Launched into Landfill Disaster
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has taken a significant step by forming an independent investigation team to probe the January 8, 2026, collapse of the Binaliw Sanitary Landfill in Cebu City. This move comes as the disaster has triggered a city-wide garbage crisis, highlighting urgent concerns over waste management and environmental safety.
Composition and Mandate of the Investigation Team
The team is composed of a diverse group of experts, including government specialists, academics, and civil society representatives. Their mandate, formalized through DENR Secretary Raphael Lotilla's issuance of Special Order 2026-32 on January 26, involves conducting a thorough fact-finding mission into the causes and consequences of the landslide.
This initiative has been launched amid renewed scrutiny over landfill management practices and regulatory oversight in the region, raising questions about compliance with environmental standards.
Presidential Directive Drives Accountability Efforts
DENR Secretary Raphael Lotilla emphasized on January 29 that the investigation follows a direct order from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who has prioritized safety, transparency, and accountability in the aftermath of the tragedy. Lotilla stated that the probe aims to identify the specific causes of the collapse and ensure that all responsible parties are held liable.
"This is in strict adherence to the directive of the President," Lotilla said. "The government is taking all necessary measures to ensure that responsible parties are held answerable for this tragedy."
The formation of this independent team underscores the government's commitment to addressing environmental disasters with rigor and ensuring that such incidents are thoroughly investigated to prevent future occurrences.
