Suspended Tarlac dump still operating

CLARK FREEPORT, Philippines — The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) has denounced the continued operation of the Kalangitan Sanitary Landfill in Capas, Tarlac despite a restraining order issued by the Court of Appeals.

The CA suspended the operation of the dump for 60 days and directed the BCDA to take control of or recover the facility from the current operator, the Metro Clark Waste Management Corp. (MCWMC).

The BCDA said the MCWMC encroached on its property and installed barriers to prevent recovery efforts.

Residents in nearby communities reportedly complained of the stench coming from the dump.

Representatives from the Philippine National Police and Department of Environment and Natural Resources as well as officials from the provincial and municipal health offices have been asked by the BCDA to look into the matter to prevent harm to communities and authorities conducting recovery efforts.

The BCDA said continued use of the dump constitutes violation of the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000.

It said it is coordinating with the Environmental Management Bureau and concerned government agencies to ensure continuous waste collection in affected areas.