MMDA Advises Manila on Waste Redirection
The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority has urged the Manila city government to redirect the city’s waste to the New San Mateo Sanitary Landfill starting Wednesday. This important shift follows the permanent closure of the Navotas Sanitary Landfill on Tuesday, which had been the primary disposal site for Manila and neighboring cities.
Challenges in Garbage Collection Expected
Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso cautioned residents about potential delays in garbage collection due to this change. He explained that the new landfill is located approximately 30 kilometers from Manila, considerably farther than the previous site, which was only 10 kilometers away.
“We don’t yet know what will happen when all the trucks travel on Commonwealth at the same time. That’s the first challenge. The second challenge is that when they reach San Mateo and the trucks arrive simultaneously, it will take time, and the process will slow down,” Moreno said in Filipino.
Efforts to Prevent Waste Overflow
To address these challenges, the Department of Public Services in Manila has been ordered to increase the number of garbage trucks. Local officials hope this measure will prevent waste accumulation and overflow in the city amid the landfill transition.
Possible Impact on Flooding if Trash Is Left Out
The mayor also warned that delays in garbage pickup could worsen flooding problems if residents leave their trash outside ahead of collection. “There might be delays, so I’m asking residents, if possible, not to put out their trash until the trucks arrive… There’s flooding in Manila, and that would only add to our problems,” he said in Filipino.
MMDA’s Next Steps and Regional Coordination
As of now, the MMDA has not yet specified which other Metro Manila local government units will begin redirecting their waste to the New San Mateo Sanitary Landfill. Community leaders continue to coordinate closely to ensure a smooth transition and minimize any disruption to public sanitation services.
For more news and updates on Manila waste management, visit Filipinokami.com.
