Cebu City Grapples with Escalating Waste Management Expenses
The cost of garbage disposal in Cebu City has surged dramatically due to nighttime hauling operations, strict truck restrictions, and the long-distance journey to Aloguinsan following the closure of the Binaliw landfill. Mayor Nestor Archival revealed that the city's P500 million waste management budget is now insufficient after the landfill's shutdown on January 8, 2026, which has forced officials to seek alternative disposal sites.
Budget Strain and Operational Challenges
"Honestly, the budget is no longer enough. The P500 million allocation was calculated when our landfill was still in Binaliw. With its closure, we had to find another way," explained Archival. Initially, the city transported waste to Consolacion, but the private landfill there already serves multiple local government units in Metro Cebu and cannot handle Cebu City's volume. This pushed officials to shift operations to Aloguinsan in southwestern Cebu, significantly increasing operational expenses.
Archival disclosed that Cebu City currently pays P3,906 per ton to a private hauler to move garbage from the temporary holding area at South Road Properties (SRP) to Aloguinsan. Approximately 1,000 tons of waste are transported daily. Due to truck bans and concerns from municipalities along the route, hauling is conducted at night. Trucks begin loading at SRP by 6:00 PM to meet the 8:00 PM truck ban and avoid traffic congestion.
Logistical Hurdles and Temporary Solutions
"One of the challenges is ensuring trucks are properly covered and drivers are extra cautious. We cannot deliver in the morning because some mayors of towns along the way have already complained," said Archival. He also requested the private hauler to make at least three trips per night to gradually reduce the waste pile at SRP.
Despite logistical issues, Archival noted that garbage collection within the city has improved compared to when waste was dumped in Consolacion. Previously, city and barangay garbage trucks lined up on roads waiting for their turn at the landfill. Now, barangay trucks unload at SRP, while the private hauler handles the long-distance transport to Aloguinsan.
"If our transfer station can receive 400 tons per day and we can deliver 1,000 tons daily to Aloguinsan, at least the accumulated waste will be reduced," he added.
Future Plans and Financial Implications
To address rising costs, the City Council is studying the possibility of reopening a three-hectare portion of the Prime Integrated Waste Solutions (PWS) landfill in Binaliw, pending approval from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) 7. If DENR grants permission this year, Archival stated that only a small additional fund would be needed. However, if denied, expenses could potentially double.
The situation underscores the urgent need for sustainable waste management strategies in urban areas, balancing environmental regulations with fiscal constraints.
