The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has ordered sanitary landfill operators across the country to prepare contingency plans for fires and other emergencies, following a nationwide audit of waste facilities.
In a memorandum dated April 22, Environment Assistant Secretary and Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) Director Jacqueline Caancan directed regional offices to require landfill operators to submit these plans within 15 days.
The plans must include measures for fire prevention and response, handling of emergencies such as slope failure, leachate overflow, and gas explosions, as well as coordination with local governments and the Bureau of Fire Protection. Operators are also required to outline evacuation procedures and post-incident rehabilitation efforts.
The EMB stressed that preparedness is crucial to protect public health, especially during extreme heat conditions that increase fire risks.
At the same time, the DENR reminded local government units to immediately stop operating open and controlled dumpsites, which are prohibited under the law. LGUs must instead implement closure and rehabilitation plans for these sites.
Regional EMB offices have been instructed to check the status of closed dumpsites, ensure proper rehabilitation, and provide technical support where needed. They are also tasked with conducting regular inspections of waste facilities and identifying high-risk areas for urgent action.
The DENR is responsible for enforcing compliance with the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act (RA 9003), including approving landfill plans, auditing operations, and penalizing violations.
