CEBU CITY — The death toll from the tragic landslide at the Inayawan Sanitary Landfill in Cebu City rose to four on January 10, 2026, after a fourth victim was confirmed dead late Friday night.
The latest fatality is another garbage collector who was buried under tons of waste during the collapse on January 8. Rescue teams recovered the body after more than 48 hours of continuous search operations, with the victim identified as a 38-year-old male (name withheld pending family notification).
Updated Casualty Summary (as of Jan 10, 2026)
- Total Dead: 4 garbage scavengers/collectors
- Injured: At least 2 others (hospitalized with fractures and other injuries)
- Missing: Initially 6 persons reported missing; 2 still unaccounted for (search ongoing)
The landslide occurred around 3:00 p.m. on Wednesday when a large portion of the waste pile collapsed, burying several scavengers who were illegally picking through garbage for recyclables. The Inayawan landfill has been officially closed since 2016, but informal scavenging has continued due to lack of strict enforcement and economic necessity.
Response & Official Statements
- Cebu City DRRMO and BFP continue 24/7 search and rescue.
- Mayor Michael Rama expressed condolences and vowed to crack down on illegal scavenging: “This is heartbreaking. We will hold accountable those who allowed this dangerous activity to persist.”
- DENR is investigating the structural integrity of the closed landfill and possible environmental violations.
The incident highlights long-standing safety issues at former and active dump sites nationwide, where informal waste pickers operate in hazardous conditions.
Our deepest sympathies to the families of the victims. May justice be served and safety reforms follow swiftly.
Here are photos from the ongoing search operations, the collapsed waste pile, and the somber scene at the site.