Not giving up hope: Search and retrieval operations continue for missing workers at the collapsed waste management facility in Binaliw, Cebu city, central Philippines. — AP
The death toll from the collapsed landfill in Binaliw has climbed to eight, but the authorities are continuing the search and rescue operations in the hope that survivors may still be trapped beneath the debris, Mayor Nestor Archival said.
Speaking at a press briefing, Archival said 18 people are still being treated in hospitals.
“The (number of) fatalities is eight and 28 are still missing,” the mayor said.
Despite the passing of the critical 72-hour window, Archival said rescue efforts will continue after indications that signs of life may still be present at the site.
“The 72 hours have already lapsed, but we are still hoping that there are people alive. That is why we continue the search and rescue operation,” he said.
Archival added that specialised equipment from Apex Mining, a private company based in Davao arrived on Jan 11. The equipment is capable of detecting possible signs of life beneath heavy debris.
“Apex Mining brought equipment that can detect signs of life, and they are saying there are signs of life. That is why we are pushing for the operation until we decide something else,” Archival said.
Rescuers faced multiple hazards, including heavy rain, foul odours, methane gas and steel debris mixed with compacted waste, which made extraction difficult.
According to them, physical dangers are compounded by the emotional strain of witnessing families anxiously waiting for news of their missing loved ones. — Philippine Daily Inquirer/Asia News Network
