Mayor Thadeo Jovito "Jonkie" Ouano of Mandaue City has announced a major crackdown on waste management, mandating strict segregation at the barangay level. The new policy, revealed on January 19, 2026, aims to optimize the city's waste transfer station and private hauling services to achieve significant cost savings.
New System Aims to Slash Hauling Expenses
Under the revamped strategy, the city will implement a clear separation of waste streams. Biodegradable waste will be diverted to the Mandaue Green Learning Park (MGLP) for composting. This move directly targets hauling costs, which are calculated based on weight. By composting organic matter locally, the city reduces the volume of trash that needs expensive transport.
Only residual, or non-recyclable and non-compostable, waste will be sent to the final disposal site. Mayor Ouano clarified that barangay trucks will no longer travel to the Asian Energy landfill in Consolacion town. Instead, an accredited private hauler with the necessary environmental permits will handle all transportation to the landfill.
"The barangay trucks will not go to Asian Energy. Our accredited hauler will be the one transporting the waste," Ouano stated. He emphasized that there will be no direct contract between the Mandaue City Government and Asian Energy, as all hauling operations will be managed through the contracted service provider.
Logistical Challenges and Strict Enforcement
The mayor cited serious logistical hurdles at the Consolacion landfill, particularly its steep terrain, which makes direct hauling by various barangay vehicles difficult and potentially unsafe. "Vehicles can struggle, especially if they are not in good condition," Ouano explained.
He issued a stern warning to residents and barangay officials regarding compliance. Garbage collection may be suspended for areas that fail to properly segregate their waste. "We told them that if segregation is not strictly enforced, we will no longer collect their waste," the Mayor declared, underscoring the critical role of community participation.
Adjusted Collection Schedule and Ongoing Procurement
The city has resumed a regular collection schedule. Residual waste is now collected on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, while biodegradable waste is picked up on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.
However, Ouano noted this schedule is flexible and may be adjusted based on operational needs. "If this does not work, we may collect waste everyday for the next one to two weeks. We will adjust and adapt as needed," he said.
Meanwhile, the city government is still finalizing the contract with a private hauler. Officials are reviewing quotations from multiple contractors to ensure cost efficiency. Ouano mentioned that the city's current hauler has so far presented the most competitive rates compared to other bidders.
