Inayawan landfill officially shut down

CEBU, Philippines - Dumping of all forms of solid waste will no longer be allowed at Inayawan Sanitary Landfill as the Cebu City government finally shut down the facility starting yesterday.

The 15-hectare facility, which had been in operation for the past 15 years, has reached its maximum capacity and now poses hazard to public health and the environment.

Mayor Michael Rama said those who would still dump waste at the landfill will be penalized.

“I padlocked it (gate) and those who will open it up to accommodate garbage again, you will be in trouble if you will not abide because it has been officially closed,” he warned.

Rama is set to draft an executive order covering the project’s convenor to oversee the maintenance, sustainability and unsolicited proposals for the development of the landfill.

Solid Waste Management Board chairman Jade Ponce said the city has to prevent the landfill’s further deterioration in preparation for its rehabilitation.

“The landfill is ultimately closed. Not even a truck can get in and no more transfer station. There is really a need for us to close it down. It is not a question of choice because there are laws that mandate to close it,” he said.

Ponce pointed out that it is the obligation of the barangays to collect wastes while the city is tasked to collect residual wastes.

On December 10, 2011, a cessation order has been issued against dumping of all forms of solid waste at the landfill, Ponce said.

The order also came with a directive that all solid wastes be transported to a duly licensed facility, such as the private lot in Pulpogan, Consolacion which is currently used as an alternative dumpsite for all barangays in the city.  (FREEMAN)