One died while 26 others remained missing as of 9:40 p.m. on Thursday, January 8, 2026, several hours after a landslide hit a landfill in Barangay Binaliw, Cebu City.

In a news release quoting the Cebu City Police Office (CCPO), the city public information office said the person who passed away died at the hospital.

That person was among the nine individuals retrieved from the structure that collapsed after it was hit by the landslide late afternoon that day.

Mayor Nestor Archival said he has ordered a 24-hour operation to search for 26 others still missing.

Up to 291 personnel from the Philippine National Police, other government agencies, and civilian groups were deployed to the privately-owned landfill.

Equipment on site included 19 ambulances and 10 fire trucks, as well as additional rescue, medical, and communication resources, the PIO said.

“Our priority at this time is the safety and rescue of those who are still missing. All available PNP units, together with our partner agencies, are working continuously and exerting maximum effort to locate and assist the victims. We extend our deepest condolences to the family of the deceased and assure the public that we will not stop until all missing persons are accounted for,” said PCol. George Ylanan, officer-in-charge of CCPO.

In a video on his Facebook page, Archival said responders are working very carefully so as not to injure further those still trapped under the rubble. 

Based on initial investigation, up to 98 workers were at the site when the landslide occurred and the structure collapsed. At least 63 have returned to their families.

In a Facebook post, Archival said he has spoken with the landfill management representatives who have assured support for the workers and their families.

The management also assured cooperation with authorities and said the safety and well-being of its employees, contractors, and neighboring communities remain its top priority.