The tragic collapse of a landfill in the mountain barangay of Binaliw, Cebu City has now claimed 20 lives, with the number of fatalities rising as recovery efforts press on. According to the latest data from landfill operator Prime Integrated Waste Solutions Inc., relayed by City Councilor Dave Tumulak, the grim statistics as of Wednesday, January 14, 2026, also include 18 injured individuals and 16 people still missing.
Perilous Search Amidst Unstable Ground
A full week after the disaster struck on January 8, families continue their agonizing vigil at the site, clinging to hope as search and rescue teams navigate extremely dangerous conditions. Tumulak, who heads the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, confirmed that operations are ongoing despite the significant risks. He emphasized that responder safety is the priority, even as the gradual deployment of heavy equipment offers a chance to recover more victims.
"We will wait for a miracle. We are still at the stage of search and rescue," Tumulak stated on Tuesday, January 13, acknowledging the families' enduring hope. Rescuers are confronting a nightmare scenario: narrow tunnels under unstable waste piles, exposure to hazardous materials, and the threat of live electrical lines. To mitigate the dangers, the operation zone has been divided into four quadrants, each manned by a team of 20 rescuers who provide mutual backup.
Stories of Survival and Heroism Emerge
Amidst the overwhelming loss, powerful narratives of courage and survival have surfaced. Fritz Valiente, 27, a seven-year veteran worker at the landfill, was trapped on the second floor of the office building when debris slammed into it. Pinned by his foot and fearing for his life, he could only pray until a coworker managed to free him.
Now recovering at home in Binaliw with multiple injuries, Valiente, a father to a three-year-old daughter, describes his escape as a "second life." However, his relief is tempered by anguish, as several of his relatives remain among the missing.
Another worker, 20-year-old John Lloyd Ople, displayed remarkable bravery in the immediate aftermath. His clothes soaked with blood, he helped rescue three injured coworkers before breaking down when prevented from re-entering the danger zone to search for his cousin. Two of Ople's relatives are still unaccounted for. In recognition of his heroism, City Councilor Pastor Alcover Jr. announced he will file a resolution to honor Ople and seek assistance for the victims' families.
Cause, Response, and a City in Mourning
Preliminary findings from the landfill operator point to a combination of natural forces as the likely cause. The company cited the magnitude 6.9 earthquake on September 30, 2025, and prolonged heavy rains from typhoon Tino as potential triggers for the collapse. Prime Integrated Waste Solutions stated it activated its emergency team immediately and is cooperating with authorities, while also complying with a cease and desist order from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.
In response to the tragedy, the Cebu City Government has declared Friday, January 16, a day of mourning. The Archdiocese of Cebu has directed all parishes to offer masses for the victims, their grieving families, and the courageous rescuers.
Archbishop Alberto Uy called for continuous prayers, saying, "We remember especially the victims and their families... May the Lord embrace them with comfort, strength and protection." He also lifted up the responders, asking for God to grant them "endurance, wisdom, and protection" as they continue their perilous mission of mercy.
