Manila Declares Health Emergency as Garbage Crisis Deepens

Manila Mayor Isko Moreno reveals that garbage contractors PhilEco and MetroWaste are withdrawing from their contracts with the City of Manila due to outstanding payments from the previous administration. (Image courtesy of Isko Moreno Domagoso’s Facebook.)

Manila Declares Health Emergency as Garbage Crisis Deepens

By Bing Jabadan – Thenationweek.com  

July 3, 2025

MANILA, Philippines – Mayor Isko Moreno Domagoso declared a health emergency in his city on Monday (July 1, 2025) due to a burgeoning garbage crisis.

The garbage crisis began after two key waste contractors abruptly ceased their services.

The problem signifies a critical juncture in the city’s relentless struggle against mounting waste as residents voice their concerns over the unsightly piles of uncollected refuse cluttering their streets and neighborhoods.

“We have been inundated with complaints and urgent appeals from the people of Manila regarding the deteriorating garbage situation in recent weeks,” Moreno said during a press briefing on Monday (July 1, 2025).

He revealed intentions to formally petition the Manila City Council to endorse the health emergency in its forthcoming session.

The roots of the crisis lie in the withdrawal of garbage contractors—PhilEco and MetroWaste—responsible for a substantial portion of the city’s waste management.

Moreno attributed their exit to unpaid invoices dating back to January, compounded by lingering debts owed to a previous contractor, Leonel.

The staggering total of unpaid bills for garbage collection services from the last administration has reached approximately P950 million (around $17 million).

This distressing figure highlights the significant financial hurdles that hinder the city’s capacity to maintain essential sanitation services.

In response, Moreno reassured residents that the local government would swiftly assume responsibility for trash collection throughout Manila.

The move aims to mitigate the immediate health risks posed by the overflowing garbage and restore normal sanitation operations across the city.

The declaration of a health emergency empowers the city government to expedite resource allocation and implement urgent measures to address the crisis.

However, the effectiveness of local authorities in navigating the complex logistics of waste collection remains uncertain, given the substantial financial constraints.

This unfolding situation underscores an urgent need for sustainable waste management solutions and enhanced financial transparency to prevent similar crises in the future.