The tragic collapse of the Binaliw landfill in Cebu City has resulted in a rising death toll and a desperate search for survivors, as operations enter a critical phase.
Latest Casualty Figures and Rescue Efforts
As of Monday morning, January 12, 2026, the official situation report confirms that eight individuals have now perished in the disaster. The number of people still missing stands at 28, keeping hope and anxiety alive for their families. Search, rescue, and retrieval operations are ongoing at the site.
Medical facilities are treating 18 injured victims. Eleven patients are at North General Hospital, while seven are receiving care at VISMED Medical Center. The bodies of the eight fatalities have been transferred to St. Peter Funeral Homes in Imus for proper identification and care.
Identifying the Missing and Mobilizing Resources
Of the 28 missing persons, records indicate that 21 are employees of Prime Waste Solutions, the landfill operator. The remaining seven individuals are from subcontractor companies. Authorities, in coordination with Prime Waste and the Department of Social Welfare and Services (DSWS), are meticulously reviewing records to verify the list.
A massive multi-agency response is underway. The operation involves 248 personnel from various groups, including:
- Bureau of Fire Protection
- Philippine National Police
- Philippine Army and Navy
- Cebu City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office
- Department of Public Works and Highways
- Philippine Coast Guard
- Local government units, private groups, and volunteers
Challenges and Official Response
Responding to concerns from victims' families about the perceived slow pace of rescue, Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival clarified that teams remain in "rescue mode." This commitment persists even though the incident has now surpassed the critical 72-hour mark.
Mayor Archival identified a lack of specialized equipment as a major factor hindering the speed of the search and rescue operations. Despite the significant challenges and the passage of time, responders continue their work with the hope of finding survivors beneath the massive pile of waste.
