Landslide at Cebu Landfill Results in Fatalities and Injuries

On January 8, 2025, a landslide at the Binaliw landfill in Cebu City, Philippines, resulted in one confirmed fatality and several injuries. The incident occurred at the Material Recovery Facility, where seven individuals were rescued, three of whom remain in critical condition. Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival confirmed the immediate deployment of disaster response teams and medical personnel to the site.

The Straits TimesBinaliw landfill collapse kills workerBinaliw landfill collapse hits nearby homes

The collapse was attributed to continuous rainfall that softened the soil and caused accumulated waste to give way. Councilor Joel Garganera, chairperson of the City Council committee on environment, indicated that the landfill operates as an open dumpsite, making it particularly susceptible to such incidents. He noted that the structure partially buried nearby houses, raising concerns about the safety of the landfill's operations.

Binaliw landfill collapse hits nearby homesBinaliw landfill collapse kills workerThe Straits Times

Emergency responders, including five ambulances and a rescue truck, were dispatched promptly to the scene. Councilor Dave Tumulak stated that initial estimates suggested over 20 landfill workers may have been trapped under the debris. Search, rescue, and retrieval operations are ongoing, with personnel from the City Environment and Natural Resources Office conducting drone assessments to evaluate the extent of the damage.

Binaliw landfill collapse kills worker

Mayor Archival emphasized the need for a thorough assessment of the landfill's safety. He stated, “If they say it is no longer safe, we will stop operations and look for alternatives.” The city government is also considering stricter waste segregation and recycling measures to reduce the volume of garbage sent to the landfill.

Binaliw landfill collapse kills workerBinaliw landfill collapse hits nearby homesThe Straits Times

Councilor Garganera criticized the landfill's operators, Prime Integrated Waste Solutions Inc., for inadequate safety measures. He described the landfill's operation as creating a "mountain made of waste," which poses significant risks during adverse weather conditions. Despite ongoing calls for the landfill's closure, it continues to serve as the city's primary waste disposal site.

Binaliw landfill collapse hits nearby homes

While the confirmed fatality stands at one, there are conflicting reports regarding the total number of individuals trapped. Initial estimates suggested that more than 20 workers were buried, but the exact number remains uncertain as rescue operations continue.

The Straits Times

• “I am closely monitoring the situation and I will go personally to Binaliw landfill as soon as possible to check the situation and to coordinate the next action (steps),” — Nestor Archival, Mayor of Cebu City

The Straits Times

• “Even ordinary mountains made of soil and rock can experience landslides. How much more a mountain of garbage?” — Joel Garganera, Councilor and Chairperson of the City Council Committee on Environment

Binaliw landfill collapse hits nearby homes

• “When the site is already full, they try to expand. That’s what we are seeing now,” — Joel Garganera, Councilor

Binaliw landfill collapse hits nearby homes

The incident at the Binaliw landfill highlights significant safety concerns regarding waste management practices in Cebu City, prompting calls for immediate action and reassessment of landfill operations.

Binaliw landfill collapse kills worker