The Philippine National Police (PNP) has mobilized its forces to assist in critical search and rescue operations following a devastating landslide at a landfill in Cebu City. The incident, which occurred on January 8, 2026, has resulted in at least one confirmed death, with fears that more individuals may be trapped under the debris.
PNP Mobilizes for Life-Saving Mission
On Friday, January 9, 2026, PNP acting chief Lieutenant General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. issued a firm directive to local police units, ordering them to prioritize all efforts toward saving lives. In a public statement, Nartatez emphasized that the police's immediate role is to provide essential manpower, ensure security in the affected zone, and offer logistical support to streamline rescue activities.
"My clear instruction is to focus first on search and rescue, secure the area, and guarantee the safety of both our responders and the residents," Nartatez stated. He further detailed that police assistance desks have been set up and perimeter control established to bolster the work of other agencies on the ground.
Coordinated Response on the Ground
Police personnel are now actively deployed at the Binaliw landfill site, performing multiple critical functions. Their duties extend beyond search and rescue to include crowd control and traffic management to prevent congestion that could hinder emergency vehicles.
Nartatez highlighted the importance of inter-agency coordination, noting that the PNP is working closely with the Local Government Unit (LGU), the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), and teams of rescue volunteers. This collaboration aims to ensure operations are orderly, continuous, and mindful of potential secondary risks.
Investigation and Accountability to Follow
While the rescue of potential survivors remains the absolute priority, the PNP chief confirmed that a parallel investigation into the cause of the landslide has already been initiated. He indicated that once the situation stabilizes, authorities will scrutinize factors including compliance with safety and environmental regulations at the landfill site.
"If any lapses or negligence are found, we will ensure that those responsible are held fully accountable under the law," Nartatez asserted, signaling a commitment to pursue justice after the emergency phase.
The landslide also impacted the landfill's administrative office. Initial reports from authorities suggest that at least 20 people were trapped by the collapse, with several already rescued. Nartatez made a direct appeal to the public for cooperation, urging citizens to follow official advisories and stay away from restricted areas to allow rescue teams to work safely and efficiently.
