The cost of managing waste in Mangaldán has increased sharply with local officials now paying over P1 million monthly in garbage tipping fees following a shift to a new disposal facility.

From a previous monthly expense of around P600,000, the town’s garbage costs have climbed to between P1 million and P1.2 million in 2026. The increase came after the local government transferred its waste disposal operations in January to a facility in Porac, Pampanga, after issues prevented the renewal of its previous agreement in Urdaneta City.

The tipping fee also rose significantly from P850 to P1,222 per cubic meter.

Pedrito Rivera, Mangaldan’s Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Officer, explained the decision behind the transfer.

“Yung ka-MOA natin kasi last year hindi na tayo nakapag-renew kasi nagkaproblema na, and yung nilipatan natin ngayon ay mahal maningil pero kasi kung tutuusin, pinakamalapit ito at mas mura pa compared sa iba,” he said.

Despite the higher costs, local officials note that the current facility remains the most practical option due to its proximity and comparatively lower rates than other alternatives.

There are, however, signs that expenses may slightly ease. Officials observed a drop in waste volume during the summer season, particularly in public areas such as the town plaza. From collecting two truckloads of garbage daily, collection has decreased to just one.

Bong Llamas, the plaza supervisor, attributed the decline to reduced activity in the area.

“Sa ngayon wala na rin kasi masyado basura dahil wala na ’yung mga foodstall dito sa plaza,” he said.

The local government continues to urge residents to practice proper waste disposal as it seeks to manage rising costs and maintain efficient waste collection services.