A major rescue operation is underway in the central Philippines after a catastrophic landfill collapse killed at least four people and left dozens missing. The incident has triggered a desperate search for survivors, with authorities working against the clock.
Timeline of the Tragedy and Rescue Efforts
The disaster struck shortly after 4 pm on Thursday at a private landfill located in the mountainous Binaliw area on the outskirts of Cebu city. A large section of the waste facility gave way, burying workers under tons of debris.
As of Saturday, 34 people remained unaccounted for, most of them workers believed to be trapped. Twelve individuals have been pulled out alive so far and rushed to hospitals for treatment. Rescue teams, comprising around 300 personnel from the national disaster management agency, are meticulously clearing the site.
Cebu city mayor Nestor Archival confirmed that signs of life were detected in some areas. Rescuers are awaiting a large crane to help clear heavier debris. Police captain Wilmer Castillo emphasised the urgency, stating that teams were racing against time as voices were reportedly heard from beneath the rubble.
Victims, Investigation, and Possible Causes
Mayor Archival stated that the collapse involved about 110 employees of the facility. All those reported missing are confirmed to be workers. The victims identified include a 22-year-old woman and a 25-year-old worker whose body was recovered on Friday. The identities of two other fatalities have not yet been released.
Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause. Preliminary findings point to ground instability, possibly linked to a 6.9-magnitude earthquake that hit Cebu province in September. Mayor Archival also suggested that heavy rainfall may have seeped into the landfill's base, further weakening its foundation.
The landfill is operated by Prime Waste Solutions Cebu, which processes approximately 1,000 tonnes of municipal solid waste daily. The company has suspended operations and is coordinating with government agencies. City officials are now exploring alternative garbage collection and disposal arrangements.
Community Anguish and Historical Echoes
Holding areas have been set up for anxious families awaiting news. Michelle Lumapas, whose brother works in the landfill's engineering department, told local media, "They said those trapped are calling for help, so there is a possibility that my brother is still there."
This disaster has painfully revived memories of the 2000 Payatas dumpsite tragedy in Manila, where more than 200 people were killed when a garbage mound collapsed during monsoon rains. The current incident underscores the ongoing risks associated with large-scale waste management facilities in the region.
