Search and rescue teams in Cebu City have concluded their grim mission at the Binaliw landfill site, recovering the body of the final missing person on Sunday morning, January 18, 2026. This discovery brings the total death toll from the tragic incident to 36 individuals, according to Cebu City Councilor Dave Tumulak.
A Somber Conclusion to the Search
The last victim was located at 5:41 AM in Quadrant A of the incident site, within the premises of Prime Integrated Waste Solutions Cebu in Barangay Binaliw. This recovery marks the end of a perilous ten-day search, rescue, and retrieval operation that began on January 8, 2026. The challenging conditions, including risks from methane gas exposure and heavy rains, significantly hampered efforts throughout the week and a half.
While the search for lives has ended, clearing operations at the site will continue until Tuesday, January 20, as stated by Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival. On a more positive note, the human cost of the disaster shows some signs of healing: 14 rescued victims have already been discharged from the hospital, though four others remain under medical care.
Investigations, Aid, and a City's Waste Crisis
In the aftermath, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources in Central Visayas (DENR-7) has issued a cease-and-desist order against the landfill operator. Mayor Archival confirmed that any investigation or penalties for alleged violations by the operator fall under the jurisdiction of DENR-7. "Now if there would be an investigation by the DENR, then we will join them," Archival stated.
The city government continues to provide financial assistance to the families of the victims. This aid extends to survivors, facility employees, and workers from affected contractors whose livelihoods were disrupted by the disaster.
The tragedy has plunged Cebu City into an acute waste management crisis. Currently, the city's garbage is being temporarily hauled to Consolacion town, a solution that will last only until February 11. Mayor Archival admitted the city's budget is strained not by tipping fees but by the high cost of hauling waste to distant disposal sites. He revealed that the city is exploring the use of landfills in Minglanilla, Pinamungajan, Toledo City, and Bogo City while seeking a permanent solution.
Looking Ahead: Policy and Environmental Calls
The Binaliw landfill operator has proposed building a transfer station to temporarily accept waste, but this requires approval from DENR-7. Meanwhile, the city is pushing forward with stricter policies. The implementation of the "No segregation, no collection" policy has been moved to March to allow for a wider information campaign in schools.
Reflecting on the recent Sinulog festival, Mayor Archival expressed dismay at the litter left behind, even picking up bottles himself. Starting next year, each festival contingent will be obligated to collect their own trash.
The disaster has cast a shadow but also reinforced calls for resilience and environmental stewardship. Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro noted that Sinulog now holds a deeper meaning following the recent earthquakes, typhoons, and the Binaliw landslide. She called on Cebuanos to protect the environment. Echoing this sentiment, Cebu Archbishop Emeritus Jose Palma praised the strength of Cebuanos through trials like the November floods, the Binaliw landslide, and the pandemic, urging that faith be coupled with action and unity for a brighter future.
