A major landslide at the Binaliw Landfill has plunged neighboring cities into a waste management crisis, prompting urgent contingency measures from local governments.
Landslide Halts Operations, Cities Scramble for Solutions
The incident, which occurred on January 8, 2026, forced the immediate closure of the landfill to new waste. This sudden shutdown has created a significant problem for the cities of Cebu and Mandaue, which rely on the facility. In response, authorities issued a Cease and Desist Order, prohibiting the landfill from accepting garbage from Cebu City, Mandaue, Lapu-Lapu, and Talisay.
Contingency Plans for Cebu City and Mandaue
Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival is actively seeking ways to prevent trash from piling up on streets. The city is collaborating with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) 7 to identify an alternative dump site, with locations in Consolacion or Minglanilla under consideration for use within a 15-day period.
With Cebu City generating between 500 to 600 tons of waste daily, officials are exploring the creation of a temporary transfer station at the Inayawan site or the South Road Properties (SRP). However, this plan requires a special permit from the DENR.
Meanwhile, in Mandaue City, Mayor Jonkie Ouano suspended garbage collection starting January 9. The mayor convened a meeting with the Mandaue City Environment and Natural Resources Office (MCENRO) and barangay captains to develop a contingency plan. While the Mandaue Green Landfill Project (MGLP) is prepared, the city stated it will only be used as a last resort.
Long-Term Strategy and Public Appeal
Looking ahead, Cebu City plans to extend the lifespan of the Binaliw landfill by 3 to 4 years through a revised waste strategy. This involves no longer sending recyclable and biodegradable waste to the landfill, thereby reducing the volume of refuse deposited.
Both cities have issued a strong appeal to the public. Residents are urged not to bring their garbage out while collection is suspended and to practice strict waste segregation between biodegradable and non-biodegradable materials.
Ongoing Operations and Sinulog Preparations
Recovery operations at the landslide site in Binaliw are ongoing and are expected to continue until January 11, after which retrieval operations will commence.
The timing of the crisis is particularly challenging with the Sinulog festival approaching, which is anticipated to increase waste generation. Local officials have assured the public that emergency steps are being taken to avert a potential public health crisis.
