Navotas: The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has reported that environmental conditions at the Navotas Sanitary Landfill Facility are steadily improving following a substantial fire incident on April 10.
According to Philippines News Agency, DENR Secretary Juan Miguel Cuna stated during a site inspection, which included officials from the Department of Public Works and Highways, that enforcement actions such as maintenance and legal proceedings against the landfill operator, Philippine Ecology Systems Corp. (PhilEco), are ongoing due to alleged violations of environmental laws and Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) conditions. Despite the landfill being under transition, as San Miguel Corporation (SMC) now owns the area, Cuna emphasized that PhilEco maintains responsibility for the site's rehabilitation.
Cuna remarked on the necessity for PhilEco to fulfill its rehabilitation obligations under the ECC, stating, "Kailangan gawin pa rin ng operator ang rehabilitation nito (The operator still needs to do the rehabilitation). It is their obligation that they have committed to under the ECC."
On social media, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. confirmed that the landfill fire has been fully extinguished. DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon highlighted the importance of proper maintenance to prevent future fires, noting ongoing risks from methane gas beneath the landfill. He urged SMC to assist in ensuring maintenance is conducted effectively to avoid another flare-up.
Despite recovery efforts, the DENR has issued Notices of Violation to PhilEco for several breaches, including failure to submit a Safe Closure and Rehabilitation Plan, inadequate air pollution controls, and unauthorized discharges under the Clean Water Act. Cuna revealed that the government is preparing stronger legal actions in collaboration with the Office of the Solicitor General, stating, "Environmental negligence has consequences. We will not allow operators to walk away from their responsibilities."
Cuna also addressed air quality improvements in Metro Manila and nearby Bulacan, with regional air quality returning to near baseline levels. However, water quality around the landfill remains a concern, with elevated contamination levels detected. The DENR is working closely with the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources to monitor marine life impacts.
Additionally, Cuna confirmed the return of all 170 families evacuated from Obando as of May 4, based on Office of Civil Defense reports.
In related developments, Acting Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez praised the 'whole-of-government' approach that helped extinguish the fire and end its toxic emissions. He highlighted the cooperation between national and local governments as well as the contributions from the private sector, particularly San Miguel Corporation's involvement in providing volunteers and other resources.
