A recent fire at the Navotas landfill has been attributed to an incomplete closure program, according to Mayor John Rey Tiangco. The incident has reignited concerns over environmental safety and municipal management in the area.
Mayor Tiangco stated that the fire, which broke out earlier this week, is directly linked to the landfill's unfinished closure process. He emphasized that the site was supposed to be sealed and rehabilitated under a scheduled program, but delays have left it vulnerable to such hazards.
"The fire could have been prevented if the closure program had been completed on time," Tiangco remarked. "We are now dealing with the consequences of these delays."
Local residents reported thick smoke and a strong odor emanating from the landfill, prompting emergency responses from fire and environmental agencies. Authorities are currently assessing the extent of the damage and monitoring air quality in surrounding neighborhoods.
The unfinished closure program has been a point of contention for years, with community advocates calling for faster action to mitigate health and environmental risks. This latest fire underscores the urgency of addressing the landfill's status, as similar incidents have occurred in the past due to accumulated waste and inadequate safety measures.
Officials are now expediting efforts to complete the closure program, including securing necessary funding and coordinating with environmental experts. The mayor assured the public that measures are being taken to prevent future fires and ensure the landfill's safe decommissioning.