Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro is championing a major environmental initiative to combat the province's escalating garbage crisis. She is advocating for the establishment of a waste-to-energy (WTE) facility, a project she deems critical for addressing long-standing waste management failures and their harmful effects.
A Public-Private Solution for a Persistent Problem
During the pilot episode of the Cebu Provincial Public Information's online broadcast, iStorya, on Friday, January 9, 2026, Governor Baricuatro revealed that the WTE project is being pursued through a public-private partnership (PPP). She confirmed the project is already in the planning stage, with a proposed site identified in Naga City.
"This is very important. That's one of the environmental issues that we have to deal with," Baricuatro stated. She expressed bewilderment over the historical lack of large-scale waste-to-energy solutions in Cebu, noting, "This is an issue that has not been addressed for a long time." The facility will convert collected municipal waste into usable energy, which can then be sold, creating a sustainable loop.
Urgent Action Driven by Environmental Hazards
The Governor underscored the pressing need for this initiative by pointing to recent environmental disasters, specifically the collapse of the Binaliw Landfill. She directly linked improper garbage disposal to increased flooding risks and other public hazards plaguing the province.
While acknowledging that landfills will not disappear overnight, Baricuatro stressed the necessity of moving toward more sustainable waste solutions. She added that the Province is strongly pushing the WTE project in coordination with the Regional Development Council (RDC), as it complements other priority infrastructure projects like dam construction.
Fast-Tracking a Comprehensive Waste Management Roadmap
Provincial Assistant Administrator Aldwin Empaces provided further details on the Capitol's accelerated strategy. He explained that the government has begun fast-tracking its comprehensive solid waste management plan and roadmap.
"In the short term, we will set up mechanisms for cleanliness and institutionalize a cleanliness campaign," Empaces said. These measures will be discussed at the Provincial Environmental Committee and the RDC.
For the long term, the plan holistically addresses:
- Solid waste management systems
- Drainage improvement projects
- The flagship Waste-to-Energy facility
Empaces outlined a clear timeline, stating the Provincial Government aims to have the plan endorsed at the RDC 7 level by the second quarter of 2026. This endorsement is crucial for the project's inclusion in the National Expenditure Program (NEP) and to secure funding for the following year.
"All solid waste facilities and mitigation measures are mandates of the LGUs, so hopefully this will be given due attention," he emphasized. The WTE project is a core component of Governor Baricuatro's broader Mega Cebu program, which also encompasses sweeping reforms in transportation, drainage, and overall solid waste management.
