DENR shuts down Tagbilaran dumpsite, citing violations

TAGBILARAN, Bohol—The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) shut down the dumpsite at Barangay Dampas here Wednesday after it discovered multiple violations during a rigorous inspection at the site.

The DENR, led by undersecretary Benny Antiporda, found violations committed by the city government, such as open dumping and negligence of leachate, or excess liquid, coming from the trash.

Antiporda issued a cease and desist order on dumpsite operations, saying the area threatens the environment.

He said the dumpsite instead can be used as a transfer station or as a materials-recovery facility.

If the local government will not take steps to deal with the dumpsite, the DENR will file administrative and criminal charges against city officials.

City administrator Cathelyn Torremocha will discuss the matter.

Trash collection will be put on hold, as the local government drafts an alternative plan and submits it to the DENR for approval.

Tagbilaran officials will also be looking for other areas to throw city trash, Torremocha added.