The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) will push key changes to address waste disposal problems following the deadly trash slide in Binaliw, Cebu, which has killed 27 people as of January 16, 2026.
Environment Secretary Raphael Lotilla said the DENR is rolling out a five-point plan to identify accountability, determine technical causes of the incident, and prevent similar accidents. The effort will also shape a long-term approach to managing garbage nationwide.
Among the immediate steps, the DENR issued a cease-and-desist order on January 12 against Prime Integrated Waste Solutions Inc., halting landfill operations after the trash slide. The agency said it has the authority to stop activities that pose serious environmental risks.
To ensure an impartial investigation, the DENR formed a special team made up of independent solid waste experts from non-government groups and universities, working alongside the agency’s legal and enforcement units. Lotilla said this is meant to guarantee transparency and science-based findings.
The DENR also ordered a nationwide inspection of all operating sanitary landfills. Regional offices were directed to strictly enforce environmental compliance certificates and safety rules, identify risks early, and require corrective actions before accidents happen.
In addition, the DENR will revise policies under the Philippine Environmental Impact Statement System. All waste management projects, including sanitary landfills, will be required to form multi-sectoral monitoring teams made up of stakeholders and technical experts to regularly check compliance.
Lotilla said a broad review of how solid waste management is being implemented is needed to close policy gaps, improve systems, and ensure long-term environmental safety.
