A privately-owned landfill in Binaliw, Cebu City, central Philippines, experienced a significant collapse on Thursday, leading to at least four confirmed fatalities and leaving dozens of individuals missing. Rescue operations are ongoing amid challenging conditions, with emergency services detecting signs of life in the debris two days after the incident.
Incident Overview
The collapse occurred on Thursday at the Binaliw Landfill. Initial reports indicated one fatality, identified as a 22-year-old woman. By Saturday, Mayor Nestor Archival confirmed that the number of fatalities had risen to four.
Casualties and Missing Persons
Twelve injured sanitation workers were successfully retrieved from the debris and transported to hospitals for medical attention. Approximately 110 workers were present at the landfill at the time of the collapse. Rescue teams are actively searching for between 30 and 38 individuals who remain unaccounted for.
Rescue and Recovery Operations
Approximately 300 personnel from various government agencies and civilian groups have been deployed to the site. Essential equipment, including excavators, ambulances, and fire trucks, are being utilized in the efforts. Conditions for emergency services are described as challenging due to unstable debris, and crews are awaiting more advanced equipment, including a 50-ton crane, to assist in the operations.
On Saturday, Mayor Archival reported that indications of life had been detected within the collapsed landfill. Rescue operations are continuing around the clock, overseen by entities such as the city's disaster council, chaired by Cebu City councillor Dave Tumulak.
Investigation
The precise cause of the landfill's collapse is currently under investigation.