The garbage crisis in Cebu City has become a festering wound that requires urgent surgical intervention. While the South Road Properties (SRP) has turned into a "transfer station" for accumulating waste, our rivers and seas also suffer from the relentless flow of garbage.
Despite the efforts of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR-EMB) 7 and the Cebu City Government to strengthen coordination, the message is clear: Garbage cannot be eliminated without public discipline.
One of the areas causing major headaches for the government is the coastline in Barangay Pasil. Even after it was cleaned for the 48th Asean Summit last May 6-8, the severe congestion of waste returns. Why? Because this is where water from the Guadalupe River flows, carrying waste that comes from residents living along the riverbank—from the upstream to the downstream.
Here we see the value of former Mayor Michael Rama's plan to clear the 3-meter easement zone. Besides preventing residents from throwing garbage into the river, it would also save them from flood danger when the river overflows during heavy rains. Installing tall screens along the Guadalupe River, like those seen on Panganiban Street, is a good example to deter lawless individuals. However, all these efforts lacked continuity after changes in city leadership.
While the government is seeking solutions to the closure of the Binaliw landfill after the tragic "trash slide" on January 8, 2026, the public must also do their part.
Waste segregation at home is not just a legal mandate but an obligation of every Cebuano. The lack of compliance has worsened the congestion in our solid waste management system.
While awaiting technical validation for the partial reopening of the Binaliw landfill under the administration of Mayor Nestor Archival, we should not be complacent. Making the SRP a dumpsite is not a solution. The real solution lies in our hands.
