MANILA, Philippines — The provincial government of Rizal has ordered the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to investigate the collapse of a landfill heap in Montalban that left three missing.
According to Governor Nina Ynares, the local government has formally requested the DENR to immediately address the incident and explore possible hazards to the environment and the public, including any reported or possible injuries, loss of life, or deaths.
The DENR said it is currently investigating the situation through the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB). The EMB has contacted landfill operator Green Leap Solid Waste Management and ordered site stabilization, submission of an action plan, and daily project reports.
The Municipal Government of Rodriguez, Rizal reported three missing. According to the local government, it is continuing to coordinate with the private operator to determine the whereabouts of the missing and properly address the situation.
Meanwhile, urban poor group Kadamay said that up to 50 people could be missing. The group condemned the incident, calling it a result of systemic neglect, while members and residents held a candlelight vigil for those still missing.