Mandaue City is implementing a significant overhaul of its solid waste management system, Mayor Thadeo Jovito Ouano announced on January 17, 2026. The changes involve stricter enforcement of waste segregation, a new arrangement for hauling residual waste, and a redefined purpose for the Mandaue Green Learning Park (MGLP).
Revised Roles for Transfer Station and Landfill
The Mandaue Green Learning Park will remain a key transfer station, but its primary function is shifting. Mayor Ouano stated that the facility will now mainly receive biodegradable waste for composting. Meanwhile, only residual waste that cannot be composted will be transported to the final disposal site.
That final site is the Asian Energy landfill located in Consolacion. However, the city's method of getting waste there is changing. Barangay garbage trucks will no longer make the trip directly to the landfill. Instead, an accredited private hauler possessing an environmental transfer permit will be solely responsible for transporting the residual waste.
The mayor clarified that Mandaue City has no direct contract with Asian Energy. All hauling services to the landfill will be managed through this third-party service provider.
Logistical Challenges and Cost-Saving Measures
Ouano explained that logistical issues at the Consolacion landfill prompted the shift. The steep terrain of the area makes direct hauling difficult and potentially unsafe, especially for vehicles that are not well-maintained.
"I personally saw how steep the area is when I visited in November," the mayor recounted. "Vehicles can struggle, especially if they are not in good condition."
To manage costs, which are calculated based on weight, the city will maximize composting at the MGLP. By ensuring only residual waste is hauled to Asian Energy, the city aims to reduce the overall weight and, consequently, the hauling expenses. Ouano noted the city is finalizing the hauling contract and reviewing quotes from other providers to ensure cost efficiency, with the current hauler offering lower rates.
Strict Segregation and Collection Schedule
A cornerstone of the new system is strict enforcement of waste segregation at the barangay level. Mayor Ouano issued a stern warning to residents: garbage collection may be suspended for non-compliance.
"We told them that if segregation is not strictly enforced, we will no longer collect their waste," he emphasized.
The city has returned to its regular collection schedule:
- Residual waste will be collected on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.
- Biodegradable waste will be collected on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.
Officials are prepared to be flexible, however. "If this does not work, we may collect waste every day for the next one to two weeks," Ouano said. "We will adjust and adapt as needed."
Despite these operational changes, the MGLP continues to be a vital component of Mandaue's long-term waste management strategy as the city works on sustainable solutions.
