A massive rubbish collapse at a privately operated landfill in Cebu City in the central Philippines has killed a 22-year-old woman and left 38 people unaccounted for, as large-scale rescue efforts continue.
Twelve injured sanitation workers were pulled from the debris and taken to hospital, with many of the missing believed to be landfill workers.
About 300 responders from government agencies and civilian groups, supported by excavators, ambulances and fire crews, are searching the unstable site.
Local officials say the collapse may be linked to unsafe waste practices, with councillors alleging the landfill was effectively operating as an open dumpsite rather than a sanitary facility, after operators repeatedly cut into and reshaped towering mounds of rubbish.
LANDSLIDE AT CEBU CITY LANDFILL
A landslide occurred at the Binaliw Landfill in Cebu City on Thursday afternoon, causing the collapse of the landfill management’s staff building.
In a Facebook post, Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival said that based on preliminary reports, there… pic.twitter.com/re2trr2Xn0
— The Philippine Star (@PhilippineStar) January 8, 2026
[Warning: Disturbing content]
LANDSLIDE SA BINALIW LANDFILL
WATCH: Netizen Lee Nhuj Elop Llacari captured on video moments after a landslide struck the Binaliw Landfill in Brgy. Binaliw, Cebu City on Thursday, Jan. 8.
Authorities are verifying reports that several structures… pic.twitter.com/zE7ZM6CGS4
— CDN Digital (@cebudailynews) January 8, 2026
