The death toll in a collapsed landfill in the central Philippines has risen to 11, authorities said, as hopes of finding survivors dim.
The landslide occurred at the Binaliw landfill in Cebu City last week while more than 100 workers were on site, officials said.
Rescuers have so far pulled 12 injured people out of the debris, but more than 20 people still remain missing. One local fire official had earlier told AFP that was unlikely for people to still be alive three days after tons of debris and trash had collapsed over them.
The incident has sparked calls for investigation into the cause of the collapse, as well as a review of the country's waste management system.
Environment authorities have since ordered Prime Integrated Waste Solutions, Inc., the landfill's operator, to suspend its activities at the site.
The local Department of Environment and Natural Resources stated that the company must submit a compliance plan within 90 days.
The department is also conducting an investigation into the cause of the collapse and will hold responsible parties accountable.
Lawmakers have called for reviews of the country's waste management system and working conditions of waste workers.
This should have never happened, Senator Imee Marcos said. The lives lost in Cebu demand clear answers and real reforms.
Bienvinido Ranido, who lives near the landfill, recounted the terrifying moment he saw people fleeing from the site as it collapsed under the weight of garbage.
The Binaliw landfill spans approximately 15 hectares and has been operating amidst concerns regarding safety and environmental practices.
Preliminary reports from the local Mines and Geosciences Bureau suggest that continuous rainfall made the rubbish heavier, contributing to the collapse.
