Search, rescue, and retrieval efforts are ongoing at the site of a devastating landslide at the Prime Waste Solutions facility in Cebu, as the nation grapples with the aftermath of the tragedy. The incident, which occurred on January 8, 2026, has claimed more lives, with authorities confirming a rising death toll.
President's Pledge of Support and Accountability
During a ceremonial event in Balamban, Cebu, on Thursday, January 15, 2026, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. began his remarks by honoring the victims. He called for a moment of silence for those affected by the Barangay Binaliw landfill collapse in Cebu City.
"As search and rescue operations continue, we offer our prayers for the souls of the departed and strength to their grieving families," President Marcos stated. He directly addressed the families, assuring them that the government is taking all necessary steps to ensure safety, transparency, accountability, and compassionate assistance in the wake of the disaster.
Latest Casualty Figures and Immediate Actions
The human cost of the trash slide continues to become clearer. As of Thursday morning, January 15, the official numbers are sobering:
- 22 individuals have been confirmed dead.
- 18 victims are currently receiving treatment in various hospitals.
- 14 people remain missing, with rescue teams working tirelessly at ground zero.
In a swift regulatory response, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has issued an immediate cease-and-desist order to the operator of the Binaliw sanitary landfill. This action halts all operations at the site as investigations into the cause of the fatal slide begin.
Community and Government Response
The disaster has cast a spotlight on waste management safety and infrastructure in the region. The continued operations at the Prime Waste Solutions landslide area underscore the urgency and scale of the response. The government's pledge, as voiced by President Marcos, now moves into a critical phase of delivering aid to the affected families, supporting the injured, and conducting a thorough investigation to prevent future tragedies.
The coming days will be crucial for the search teams looking for the missing and for a community in Cebu City seeking answers and healing from this profound loss.
