Osmeña to Lopez: Explain closure statement

CEBU, Philippines - Cebu City Mayor Tomas Osmeña wants Environment Secretary Gina Lopez to clarify her recent declaration to close the Inayawan landfill as soon as possible.

"I just asked her to explain because she's making a declaration so we deserve an explanation," Osmeña told reporters yesterday.

Last October 21, Lopez made an unscheduled visit to the landfill after she was asked to comment on its reopening.

The landfill has been the subject of controversy because it reportedly violates environmental laws and has not complied with sanitary requirements.

Lopez said then, "I did not know at first that the site was actually near the sea. If I would have known earlier, I would really have it closed. A landfill near the sea should not be allowed."

Councilor Joel Garganera also told Lopez that the seawater near the landfill goes up to six to eight meters.

Osmeña, however, wants an explanation why the water goes to that level.

Talisay option

Meanwhile, Osmeña said he considers as good news the recent statement of Talisay Mayor Eduardo Gullas that Talisay is open to other local government units disposing of their garbage at the city's landfill in Barangay Tapul.

However, Osmeña said Talisay would need to participate in a bidding considering that Cebu City is looking for a contractor that offers the lowest price.

"I'm willing to get the lowest cost if that is the ruling. We have to follow the law. I cannot disobey the law. I am not willing to spend the money of the people," Osmeña said.

Garganera himself said Talisay would be a wise alternative because of its proximity to Cebu City.   The Talisay dumpsite is one of 11 landfills built in Cebu.

DENR has identified five operational facilities, two of which are private-owned and are located in Consolacion. The other three are managed by local government units in Talisay City, Asturias town, and Balamban town.

Former councilor Nida Cabrera whom Osmeña has tasked to oversee the reopening of the Inayawan landfill said the mayor has directed her to allow at least three companies to present proposals on a waste to energy facility, which will process the existing garbage in the landfill.

Mega Pacific of the Pangilinan Group and Bio-Plant Technology from Germany is scheduled to present its proposal to city government today.

Meanwhile, the city's is eyeing at buying "good bacteria" amounting to P1.9 million.

The good bacteria will be sprayed on the mound of garbage at the landfill to remove the foul odor.

Cabrera said the additional purchase is good until December and more enzymes will have to be purchased again for next year.

On September 30, the city emergency good bacteria from CHC Agritect worth P400,000, which was consumed in 15 days.

The 330 packs of good bacteria were charged against the Accelerated Social Amelioration Program.  (FREEMAN)