Manila Mayor Tackles Garbage Crisis as City Declares State of Emergency

The newly reinstated mayor of Manila, Francisco Domagoso, has declared a state of emergency due to a severe waste management crisis, as contractors halted services over unpaid bills, leading to hazardous piles of garbage across the city.

Manila's Mayor Francisco Domagoso has returned to confront a mounting crisis in the Philippine capital, declaring a state of emergency due to uncollected waste. As he assumed office, he was met with the alarming news that garbage collection services were being suspended by the contracted companies, attributing their decision to overdue payments.

In recent weeks, the accumulation of trash has become increasingly unmanageable, with some streets completely blocked, impacting both traffic and public health. Garbage was notably left unattended in high-traffic commercial districts and major roadways, exacerbated by the heavy monsoon rains that swept through the area. The situation has contributed to a growing stench that residents have described as unbearable.

“It's detrimental to our eyes, our noses, and public health,” Mayor Domagoso expressed during a live broadcast, urging residents to keep their waste stored at home until collection resumes. The mayor, who previously worked as a waste collector before his political career, emphasized the urgency of the situation and the need for immediate action.

Addressing the City Council, Domagoso placed blame on the prior administration of Mayor Honey Lacuna for the existing financial woes that left the city unable to fulfill its obligations to garbage collection contractors. As frustrations rise among citizens, the mayor's administration is under pressure to resolve the fiscal issues and restore regular waste collection services in Manila.