DENR creates team to probe Binaliw tragedy

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has formally created an independent composite investigation and fact-finding team to look into the Binaliw Sanitary Landfill tragedy in Cebu City that claimed at least 36 lives, tapping experts from the academe and civil society to ensure transparency and accountability.

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DENR Secretary Raphael Lotilla issued a special order on January 26, 2026, establishing the team in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to uphold public safety, transparency, and accountability.

“This is in strict adherence to the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to ensure safety, transparency, and accountability,” Lotilla said, adding that the government is taking all necessary measures to ensure that those responsible are held answerable for the tragedy.

The composite team is headed by Assistant Secretary for Legal Affairs, Enforcement, and Human Resources Norlito A. Eneran. It includes representatives from non-government organizations and academic institutions to provide independent, scientific oversight.

Among the external members are Aileen Lucero, national coordinator of the EcoWaste Coalition, representing civil society and environmental advocates, and Engr. Janice Jamora, chair of the College of Engineering at the University of San Carlos-Talamban Campus, who will provide technical and academic expertise.