Manila, Philippines - Mayor Francisco Domagoso has returned to the forefront of a growing crisis in the Philippine capital, declaring a state of emergency as trash collection services ground to a halt because contractors are owed payment. Complications arose as the city experienced a staggering build-up of garbage, with areas becoming nearly impassable, particularly during monsoon rains that exacerbated the situation.
For weeks, Manila's densely populated streets were overwhelmed by filth, with mounds of refuse occupying commercial districts and roads leading to significant public buildings, including City Hall and the Supreme Court. With nearly two million residents affected, the situation became dire as waste languished in the oppressive tropical heat.
"It hurts the eyes, it hurts the nose, and it hurts public health," remarked Mayor Domagoso during a livestream session. He urged locals to keep their garbage at home until collection could resume, stressing the urgency of the public health threat posed by the growing trash piles. In a swift move, he declared a state of emergency the following day to tackle the fallout from the mounting refuse.
Having once worked as a garbage collector himself before transitioning to a career in acting and politics, Domagoso understands the implications of the crisis on ordinary citizens. In a recent address to the City Council, he pointed fingers at his predecessor, Honey Lacuna, alleging that mismanagement had led to the debts owed to waste collection services.
This crisis underscores the persistent challenges of waste management in Manila, a city characterized by a mixture of antiquated colonial architecture and sprawling informal settlements. As clear solutions remain elusive, the mayor's office faces the daunting task of restoring proper sanitation services amidst the complications caused by financial instability.
