Here we go again with the looming closure of the Kalangitan sanitary landfill in Capas, Tarlac. It sparked urgent calls for action from the local government leaders.
A joint plea by mayors Vilma Caluag of the City of San Fernando and Roseller Rodriguez of Capas underscored a crucial point: the need for comprehensive planning and assessment to avert a potential waste management crisis.
The crux of the matter lies in the responsibility of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to conduct thorough evaluations of alternative waste disposal sites. Caluag emphasizes that the DENR, as the regulatory authority, holds the key to ensuring the environmental viability of these alternatives.
The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) chair Delfin Lorenzana pointed out three operational facilities as alternatives to the Kalangitan landfill with an 11,000 metric tons in total of capacity: the Eco Protect Management Corporation, Floridablanca Enviro Park Project, and Prime Integrated Waste Solutions Incorporated.
The Metro Clark Waste Management Corporation (MCWMC) is, by the way, a state-of-the-art waste facility that has fully complied with the environmental standards of Republic Act 9003, the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000.
So, where are we in terms of transition? How prepared are these three operational facilities? Do they already have the necessary permit? Remember, these alternative facilities will cater to solid waste from at least 121 local government units (LGUs) with millions of households in total, thousands of business establishments including locators from Clark and Subic Freeport, not to mention the hospital generated waste.
The timeline presented for the development of alternative sites underscores the urgency of the situation.
Caluag estimated that it could take up to a year for the development of alternative sites to become operational, highlighting the pressing need for immediate action. Any delay in this process could exacerbate the impact on communities and industries reliant on efficient waste disposal services.
Rodriguez also echoes the same sentiments, emphasizing the need for environmental compliance in any proposed alternatives. The mandate of the DENR to uphold environmental laws only stresses the gravity of their role in this process. Failure to adhere could jeopardize public health and aggravate environmental degradation.
With over a hundred LGUs further emphasizing the severity of the situation, the plea to defer the closure of the Kalangitan Sanitary Landfill reflects a shared concern for the well-being of millions of residents across Central and Northern Luzon. This is not merely a local issue but a regional one with far-reaching implications.
MCWMC’s role in responsibly managing waste underscores the importance of efficient and compliant waste disposal practices.
The warnings issued by handlers of hospital and toxic wastes is a reminder of the potential health repercussions of inadequate waste management. The specter of a “major health crisis” looms large if decisive action is not taken.
How proactive are the measures and collaborative efforts between BCDA and DENR? How can Central and Northern Luzon navigate this impending waste management crisis and ensure a sustainable future for generations to come?
As the clock ticks closer to the planned closure of the Kalangitan landfill, the onus rests on relevant authorities to act swiftly and decisively. The stakes are high. Are the consequences of inaction dire?