Published on: February 6, 2026, 12:27 pm
Cebu City's Garbage Crisis Reaches Critical Point Amid Election Concerns
The garbage crisis in Cebu City has escalated beyond mere discussion, according to a stark declaration from Councilor Dave Tumulak. He sounded the alarm over the worsening waste problem in the city, coinciding with the approaching 2026 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) Elections.
Political Sensitivity of Waste Segregation
Tumulak emphasized that implementing waste segregation at the barangay level has become a politically sensitive issue. He expressed concern that many barangay captains might hesitate to enforce strict segregation policies due to fears of alienating voters ahead of the November 2, 2026 elections.
"This requires strong political will. If the mayor orders strict implementation of waste segregation in every barangay, who will serve as the foot soldiers?" questioned the councilor, highlighting the leadership challenges in addressing the crisis.
Unsustainable Current Waste Disposal System
The councilor warned the public that the current system of transporting waste to distant locations, such as Aloginsan, is unsustainable. This approach incurs high costs for fuel and tipping fees, in addition to significant time delays caused by traffic congestion.
Moreover, the foul odor from garbage trucks traveling long distances has become a common complaint in neighboring towns, exacerbating regional tensions over waste management.
Impending Contract Expiry and Lack of Clear Plans
Cebu City's contract with the Asian Energy landfill in Consolacion is set to expire by March. Tumulak cautioned that without a clear post-contract plan, the city risks a return to garbage piling up on the streets, reminiscent of previous waste management failures.
Criticism of DENR's Role
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) did not escape Tumulak's criticism. He asserted that the agency needs to be more proactive and provide concrete recommendations, rather than merely waiting, especially following the closure of the Binaliw landfill.
Partial Solutions and Health Disaster Warning
While waste-to-energy conversion could offer some assistance, Tumulak reminded the city that this represents only a partial solution. He issued a grave warning: if barangays fail to act due to election fears, Cebu could potentially face a severe health disaster from unmanaged waste accumulation.
The councilor's statements underscore the urgent need for coordinated action between local government units, national agencies, and the community to avert a full-blown environmental and public health crisis in Cebu City.
