CEBU CITY, Philippines โ The death toll from the landslide at a landfill in Cebu City has climbed to 12, authorities said Tuesday, as search and rescue teams continue to dig through debris amid reports of possible signs of life beneath the site.
At least 24 people remain missing, while 12 others were injured in the incident, according to GMA Integrated News.
Signs of life under landfill
The landslide struck Thursday afternoon at the landfill facility in Barangay Binaliw, prompting continuous rescue operations despite difficult and dangerous conditions on the ground.
Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival said specialized equipment brought in by Apex Mining detected what appeared to be signs of life under the landfill, giving rescuers reason to continue operations even beyond the critical 72-hour window.
โYesterday, Apex Mining had equipment that showed possible signs of life. Thatโs why, even though more than 72 hours have passed, we are still in rescue mode,โ Archival said in an interview with GMA Integrated Newsโ Unang Balita.
The mayor said rescue efforts have accelerated with the arrival of additional equipment, but noted that operations were initially slowed due to safety risks, including the possibility of gas leaks beneath the landfill and the presence of interconnected steel structures that could collapse further.
Cautious
โWe were advised to be very careful because there may be a gas leak underneath. Also, the structures are made of steel and are interconnected. If certain parts are lifted, people trapped below could be put in more danger,โ Archival said.
In the wake of the tragedy, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Central Visayas issued a cease-and-desist order against Prime Integrated Waste Solutions, Inc. (PWS), the private operator of the landfill.
Prime Waste Solutions Cebu said it has suspended operations at the facility and is coordinating with government agencies and the Cebu City local government to assist victims and their families.
โThe safety and well-being of our employees, contractors, and neighboring communities remain our top priority,โ the company said, adding that it will release updates as more information becomes available.
About The Author
