Cebu: The Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Environmental Management Bureau Region Central Visayas (DENR-EMB 7) has announced a partial lifting of the cease and desist order (CDO) against Prime Integrated Waste Management Inc. This decision comes after the company fulfilled critical remediation and operational commitments for its Binaliw Sanitary Landfill Project.
According to Philippines News Agency, EMB Regional Director John Edward Ang emphasized that the decision was made with careful consideration of both environmental safeguards and practical necessities. Ang highlighted the urgent need for a functional waste disposal facility in Cebu, which was a significant factor in the bureau's decision. The partial lifting of the CDO is conditional, requiring the company to continue adhering to Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) requirements to prevent incidents like previous trash slides. Rehabilitation and stabilization work remain top priorities.
The partial lifting is dependent on the company's ongoing adherence to an agreed rehabilitation plan and other mitigation measures. Local officials have been informed that monitoring and compliance checks will continue as the facility completes stabilization and site restoration.
On March 31, EMB-7 amended the project's ECC, allowing for the installation of engineered components to enhance operational safety. These enhancements include the development of a new cell at the landfill's toe, with a capacity of 90,524 metric tons, and an interim cell with a capacity of 19,470.83 metric tons. The local government has issued a certification expressing consent to these modifications, supported by the Sanggunian Bayan through Resolution No. 17-2624-2026.
The local council had previously sought assistance from DENR-7 on February 23 to expedite Prime Integrated Waste Management Inc.'s compliance with rehabilitation requirements. This was aimed at ensuring the safe resumption of operations under stricter environmental and safety protocols.
Director Ang assured the public that strict monitoring of the facility will remain in place. Regular site inspections will be conducted to ensure that stabilization measures meet required standards and that leachate management is properly handled.
He also underscored the importance of multi-sectoral oversight, stating that the EMB will continue to engage stakeholders, including local government units and non-government organizations, to actively participate in monitoring activities. This collaborative effort is intended to ensure full compliance and safety in all operations.
