Philippines Landfill Collapse Leaves at Least Four Dead and Dozens Trapped

Rescue Efforts Ongoing After Philippine Landfill Collapse

A landfill collapse in Cebu City, Philippines has resulted in four confirmed fatalities and 12 injured workers being taken to hospitals. The Binaliw landfill, which was home to 110 workers at the time of the incident, suffered significant damage to several structures and facilities.

According to Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival, the death toll has risen as rescue efforts continue for dozens of missing workers. As of Friday, 36 people were reported missing, although an update on this number was not immediately available.

Families of the missing workers remain hopeful that their loved ones will be found alive. One such family member, Jerahmey Espinoza, visited the landfill in search of her husband, who is among those still unaccounted for. “We’re still hopeful that he’s alive,” she said.

Dozens of rescuers, including police, firefighters, and disaster-response personnel, are working to locate survivors in the rubble of twisted tin roofs, iron bars, and combustible debris. Authorities have confirmed signs of life in specific areas, requiring careful excavation and the deployment of a 50-ton crane.

The safety of responders is being prioritized due to hazards such as unstable debris and acetylene risks. Adjustments have been made to the security perimeter and controlled access to minimize risks. The cause of the collapse remains under investigation.

Source: Al Jazeera