The Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Environmental Management Bureau (DENR-EMB) has announced that Davao City is 'making progress' in its efforts to meet the necessary requirements for reopening its sanitary landfill.
Recent Developments Post-Tragedy
This update follows meetings on June 10, where city officials reviewed compliance with the conditions set after a suspension order was issued on May 22 due to a fatal trash slide incident.
Since the incident on May 20, technical teams have conducted daily inspections to monitor the landfill and ensure the implementation of safety measures.
Notable assessments took place on June 7 and June 8 to evaluate interim measures and check for waste presence after a significant earthquake in the region.
The DENR-EMB XI and the LGU of Davao City continue to work hand in hand to resolve the city’s waste collection and disposal challenges.
DENR-EMB Statement
- Concrete pouring at the unloading bay is ongoing.
- Installation of a geoliner at the new sanitary landfill is underway.
The new sanitary landfill, adjacent to the existing site, is scheduled to begin operations on June 16 if all safety measures are verified.
Atty. Norlito Eneran of the DENR emphasized the responsibility of local government units to enforce the Ecological Waste Management Act. He indicated the DENR's role in providing guidance and technical advice.
In response to illegal waste dumping near the DENR office, Eneran stated that the agency is exploring legal options to address the issue.
The EMB's recent assessments revealed that no waste pickers were present on-site, and that the evacuation of settlers surrounding the dumpsite has been successful.