Rescue operations are underway in Cebu City, Philippines, following a catastrophic collapse of a mountain of garbage at the Binaliw Landfill. The incident, which occurred on Thursday, resulted in at least one confirmed death and left nearly 50 individuals buried under the debris. Many of those trapped are landfill workers, although it remains unclear if any nearby residents were among them.
Cebu Mayor Nestor Archival provided updates during a news briefing, confirming signs of life from within the rubble. He noted that a substantial rescue effort was mobilizing, with hundreds of responders already on-site and an additional 500 personnel expected to join the search, which is anticipated to continue until at least Sunday.
Rescue teams face significant challenges due to the presence of methane gas, which is emitted from the landfill. This limits the equipment available for the operation, as any sparks could ignite the gas. As of the latest reports, 34 people remain unaccounted for, a decrease from the earlier estimate of 38. Meanwhile, at least 12 employees have been rescued and are currently receiving medical attention.
The mountain of garbage is estimated to be approximately four stories high, as described by Jason Morata, a city assistant public information officer. Aerial images released by law enforcement depict several crushed structures beneath the weight of the refuse. These buildings reportedly housed offices for various departments of the private company that operates the landfill, Prime Integrated Waste Solutions.
Morata pointed out several environmental factors that may have contributed to the collapse, including the impact of two typhoons in late 2025 and an earthquake. He also mentioned that communication is hampered at the site, making it difficult to gather information as there is “no signal” available.
The Binaliw Landfill processes around 1,000 tons of municipal solid waste daily, according to the operator’s website. The facility employs about 110 workers, though calls to the company for comment went unanswered on Friday.
Marge Parcotello, a civilian staff member of the police department in the nearby town of Consolacion, expressed her concerns, stating, “We don’t know what caused the collapse. It wasn’t raining at all.” She noted that many of the victims were from Consolacion, emphasizing the vulnerability of local communities surrounding such landfills.
Safety and health issues related to landfills have long been a concern in the Philippines, particularly for impoverished communities that often rely on scavenging for food and materials from waste. A tragic incident in July 2000, where over 200 people lost their lives due to a garbage avalanche in Manila, led to public outcry and subsequent legislative efforts aimed at improving waste management practices.
As rescue efforts continue, the situation highlights the ongoing challenges faced by waste management facilities in the Philippines and the urgent need for improved safety standards to protect both workers and nearby residents.
