By Lane Afable, News Editor
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has directed sanitary landfill operators nationwide to submit contingency plans for fires and other emergencies, following a recent audit of waste disposal facilities.
In a memorandum dated April 22, the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) required operators to submit their contingency plans within 15 days, outlining measures to address fire incidents, slope failure, leachate overflow and possible gas explosions.
The directive also covers installation of gas monitoring systems, coordination with local government units (LGUs) and Bureau of Fire Protection, evacuation procedures, and post-incident rehabilitation efforts, according to a news release over the weekend.
EMB Director Jacqueline Caancan said preparedness is critical to minimizing risks to public health, property, and the environment, particularly amid extreme heat that increases fire hazards at landfill sites.
At the same time, the EMB reminded LGUs to strictly comply with the ban on open dumping under Republic Act No. 9003 or the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000, the Philippines’ primary law mandating a comprehensive, community-based approach to waste reduction.
Local governments operating open or controlled dumpsites were ordered to immediately cease operations and implement their Safe Closure and Rehabilitation Plans.
The EMB likewise instructed regional offices to verify the rehabilitation status of closed dumpsites and provide technical assistance to ensure compliance with national guidelines.
Regular inspections and risk assessments will be conducted to identify high-risk disposal facilities requiring urgent intervention.
