Manila implements new garbage collection schedule

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has issued a final notice to the City of Manila to redirect its waste disposal to the New San Mateo Sanitary Landfill in Rizal, following the closure of the Navotas dumpsite.

In Bam Alegre’s Unang Balita report, Manila began implementing a new garbage collection schedule on Wednesday, which the city government warned could result in delays in both collection and disposal.

The shift has created logistical challenges for the city. From the previous 10-kilometer travel distance to Navotas, garbage trucks must now cover about 30 kilometers to reach San Mateo.

According to the local government, this requires deploying more trucks and carefully monitoring how long it will take to transport the city’s waste to Rizal.

In some areas, such as Lopez Boulevard, trash had yet to be collected as of Wednesday despite being scheduled for pickup.

Residents expressed concern over the possible effects of the delays.

“Nakukuha naman. Mahalaga di maipon para sa health ng mga bata,” said Amilyn Delos Reyes, a resident.
(It is collected, but it’s important that it doesn’t pile up because of the children’s health.)

“Nakokolekta naman yan. Pag hindi makuha, dumudulas ang kalsada at maraming naaksidente,” said another resident, Rosie Rotano.

(It is collected, but when it isn’t picked up right away, the road becomes slippery and there are many accidents.)

Apart from Manila, the MMDA also served notices to Parañaque, Muntinlupa, Pasig, and parts of Taguig to divert their waste disposal to the San Mateo facility. —Sherylin Untalan/ VAL, GMA Integrated News