MANILA – The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has asked Davao City Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte to explain an alleged directive that led to the dumping of mixed waste outside its regional office in Lanang.
DENR-Region XI Director Mercedes Dumagan issued the request for clarification after agency personnel intercepted individuals unloading garbage at the site, which is located in front of the DENR regional office.
Reports indicated that some of those apprehended cited a Facebook post from the mayor dated June 4, which allegedly designated the area as a temporary waste collection point.
The mayor has been given five days to submit a response, with copies of the DENR letter furnished to national environment officials and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG).
The agency said the waste dumped at the location was not segregated and included commercial refuse, raising concerns over violations of Republic Act 9003, or the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act.
Dumagan emphasized that waste collection areas must comply with the city’s approved Solid Waste Management Plan and established environmental guidelines.
“We are ensuring proper clarification of these incidents and reinforcing compliance with waste management procedures,” she said.
The DENR also confirmed it is working with the Philippine National Police to identify trucks and other vehicles seen during the dumping incidents for documentation and possible legal action.
Separately, the agency has filed a criminal complaint against the owner of a multipurpose vehicle allegedly captured on CCTV unloading sacks of mixed waste outside the regional office.
Officials said the filing is part of ongoing efforts to enforce accountability amid challenges in waste management following the temporary closure of the city’s landfill.
The DENR earlier ordered the closure of the Davao City Sanitary Landfill in Barangay New Carmen after a May 20 trash slide killed two people, destroyed 15 houses, and affected around 180 families.
The agency said its enforcement actions aim to ensure compliance with environmental laws and proper waste handling practices during the city’s recovery period.
