Rodriguez: The Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) Calabarzon has issued a cease-and-desist order against the section of the sanitary landfill in Barangay San Isidro, Rodriguez, Rizal, following a major trash slide that left one person dead and two others missing. The order affects the six-hectare Phase 5 area of the sanitary landfill managed by Green Leap Solid Waste Management, Inc., where the incident occurred on February 20.
According to Philippines News Agency, investigators from EMB Calabarzon reported that around 420,000 cubic meters of waste eroded from the active tipping area during the trash slide, reportedly burying three units of heavy equipment. A follow-up investigation conducted on February 23, 2026, revealed operational lapses, erosion of the active tipping area, exposed waste emitting foul odor, and a visible crack in the adjacent bench waste posing a risk of further collapse. The DENR noted multiple violations of conditions outlined in the proponent's Environmental Compliance Certificate.
The DENR-EMB Calabarzon has ordered the immediate cessation of all operations in Phase 5, except for emergency and remedial activities. These activities include retrieval operations, slope stabilization, debris clearing, and installation of engineering controls to prevent additional erosion. A strict 'no-entry' policy has been enforced in the affected area to ensure public safety and avoid interference with ongoing rescue and rehabilitation efforts.
DENR Calabarzon Regional Executive Director Nilo Tamoria emphasized that the agency's priority is to stabilize the site and prevent further environmental degradation, while holding the landfill operator accountable for compliance lapses. Tamoria stated, "We will not tolerate negligence that puts the environment and public safety at risk."
The company has been advised to transfer the active tipping area from Phase 5 to another stable portion of the facility to ensure continued waste management services without compromising safety. Green Leap Solid Waste Management, Inc. has been directed to submit a detailed report of its corrective actions within five days, during a technical conference scheduled on Wednesday. Failure to attend the conference will be considered a waiver of the company's right to be heard, allowing the EMB to proceed with appropriate legal action based on available evidence.
The DENR-EMB Calabarzon continues to closely monitor the site to ensure that rehabilitation, leveling, and slope stabilization works are completed promptly and in compliance with environmental standards.
