In a significant step toward enhancing urban waste management, Bacolod City has officially commenced construction on a new sanitary landfill facility. Mayor Greg Gasataya spearheaded the groundbreaking ceremony for Cell No. 5, which is situated adjacent to the existing Cell No. 4 in Barangay Felisa. This pivotal event took place on Thursday, January 29, 2026, marking a crucial phase in the city's infrastructure development.
Project Details and Timeline
The Bacolod City Government has allocated a substantial budget of P66 million for this ambitious project, covering an expansive area of two hectares. A joint venture comprising International Solid Waste Integrated Management Specialists Inc. (I-SWIMS), D.C. Sandil Construction and Realty Development Inc., and San Igmedio Builders Inc. has been appointed as the new garbage hauler responsible for the construction. According to Mayor Gasataya, the contractor has been tasked with completing the project within a tight timeframe of 300 calendar days, equivalent to nearly 10 months.
"They are now clearing the area to start the construction of Cell No. 5, and they have signified their intent to finish the project earlier than the scheduled completion date," Gasataya emphasized during the ceremony. This proactive approach underscores the city's commitment to efficient and timely project execution.
Safety Measures and Future Plans
In light of recent incidents, such as the landfill collapse in Cebu City, Mayor Gasataya highlighted that I-SWIMS is implementing enhanced safety protocols in Cell No. 4 to prevent similar occurrences in Bacolod. These measures are designed to ensure structural integrity and environmental protection, reflecting a forward-thinking strategy in waste management.
Looking ahead, Gasataya expressed optimism that this might be the final sanitary landfill construction for Bacolod, as the city pivots toward more sustainable solutions. "I am hopeful that this will be the last sanitary landfill construction, as the city is now working on a waste-to-energy project," he stated, signaling a shift toward innovative energy alternatives.
Waste-to-Energy Initiative
Supporting this vision, the Bacolod City Government signed a memorandum of agreement with the Department of Energy on January 26, 2026, to develop a waste-to-energy (WTE) project. This initiative aims to institutionalize energy efficiency across the public sector by deploying advanced technologies, including:
- Light-emitting diode (LED) lighting systems
- Inverter-type air-conditioning units
- Smart metering solutions
- Solar photovoltaic installations
- Electric vehicle charging infrastructure
These technologies are expected to help government entities reduce electricity and fuel consumption by at least 10 percent, aligning with the Government Energy Management Program and national energy efficiency goals. This dual approach of landfill development and WTE projects positions Bacolod as a leader in environmental sustainability.
Ceremony Attendees
The groundbreaking event was well-attended by key officials, demonstrating broad support for the project. Notable attendees included:
- Councilor Homer Bais
- Environmental Management Bureau–Negros Island Region Officer-in-Charge Vicente Losbañes
- Department of the Interior and Local Government-Bacolod Head Christian Nagaynay
- Various department heads from the city government
This collaborative effort highlights the importance of inter-agency cooperation in addressing urban waste challenges and advancing sustainable development in Bacolod City.
