Dozens of individuals are feared trapped under a heap of garbage following a collapse at a landfill site. A significant rescue operation is currently in progress at a location in central Philippines to locate survivors, with one confirmed fatality. Nearly 50 sanitation workers were caught in the incident when a large pile of waste crumbled at the Binaliw Landfill in Cebu City.
Emergency responders managed to rescue 13 individuals overnight, while efforts are ongoing to find those still trapped under the debris. The collapse affected landfill workers, though it remains uncertain if nearby residents were involved. One of the rescued workers, a female, tragically passed away during transportation to a hospital, while others sustained injuries and are receiving medical care.
An eyewitness, Jaylord Antigua, described the sudden collapse of the garbage mound without warning in favorable weather conditions. He narrowly escaped from his office, which was destroyed in the avalanche, by crawling through the rubble. Search and rescue operations continue for the 38 individuals still missing, according to Cebu Mayor Nestor Archival and the Office of Civil Defence.
Efforts are being made to ensure the safety and well-being of those affected, with strict adherence to safety protocols. Images released by authorities depict the extensive damage caused by the landslide, with relatives anxiously awaiting news as rescue operations progress. An emergency meeting is scheduled for officials at the waste management facility, where a warehouse was among the structures impacted by the garbage wall.
Landfills and open dumpsites have posed recurring safety and health risks in various Philippine communities, particularly in proximity to impoverished areas where individuals scavenge for resources. This incident recalls a similar tragedy in 2000 when a garbage heap collapse in Quezon City led to significant casualties and property damage, prompting legislative action to improve waste management practices and close illegal dumpsites.
