A massive avalanche of garbage and debris collapsed at a landfill in the village of Binaliw, in the city of Cebu, Philippines, leaving at least two people dead and 36 workers missing, as rescue operations continue amid a chaotic scene.
The collapse occurred without warning, burying nearby structures and several workers who were on duty at the waste management facility. So far, 13 people have been rescued alive, although one later died in the hospital and several others were injured.
Emergency teams, supported by heavy machinery, are racing against time to locate those still missing beneath tons of garbage, soil, and debris. Local authorities noted that the landfill was operating normally and that the collapse happened during fair weather, raising serious concerns about safety conditions at the site.
Families of the workers remain in anguish as they await updates, while rescue crews also face risks from methane gas and other hazardous conditions that complicate recovery efforts.
Could better landfill regulation prevent tragedies like this?
Yes. Experts say stricter planning and early-warning systems at waste sites could significantly reduce the risk of deadly collapses.