Cebu: The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), through the Employees' Compensation Commission (ECC), has assured immediate assistance and access to benefits for injured workers and the families of those killed in the Binaliw landfill tragedy earlier this month.

According to Philippines News Agency, ECC Executive Director Kaima Via Velasquez stated that the commission is working closely with DOLE Central Visayas, Social Security System (SSS), and the employer, Prime Waste Solutions Cebu, to expedite the processing of claims. "We have instructed our regional officer in Cebu to prioritize these cases and extend all possible assistance to the affected workers and their families," she mentioned in a statement.

The ECC regional office reported it has been closely monitoring the incident since it occurred and has met with representatives of the landfill owner, SSS, and ECC to coordinate assistance for workers, even as rescue operations were ongoing. Under the Employees' Compensation (EC) Program, families of qualified deceased workers will receive death pensions, funeral benefits, and immediate cash assistance. Injured workers may also avail themselves of sickness or disability benefits, as well as reimbursement for medical expenses.

DOLE Central Visayas Regional Director Roy Buenafe confirmed that Prime Waste Solutions Cebu has committed to settling all outstanding claims of victims and affected workers. In addition to EC benefits, DOLE will also extend livelihood and emergency employment assistance to eligible beneficiaries through its Integrated Livelihood Program and the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers program.

DOLE added that profiling and information-gathering activities are ongoing to ensure the timely delivery of services to affected workers and their families. The January 8 incident resulted in 36 fatalities and left several others injured.