The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has directed all local government units (LGUs) across the country to immediately cease the operation of open and controlled dumpsites, citing the urgent need to protect communities and the environment.

In an April 22, 2026, memorandum signed by Jacqueline Caancan, the agency ordered all regional directors of the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) to enforce the directive and ensure strict compliance among waste facility operators.

The DENR emphasized that open dumping is strictly prohibited, and LGUs must promptly implement safe closure and rehabilitation plans for existing dumpsites.

For sites that have already been shut down, EMB regional offices were instructed to verify the status of rehabilitation efforts, take necessary corrective actions, and extend technical assistance in line with existing environmental guidelines.

In addition, operators of sanitary landfills are now required to submit contingency plans within 15 days.

These plans must include detailed measures for fire prevention and response, as well as emergency protocols covering risks such as slope failure, leachate leakage, and gas explosions.

Operators are also mandated to install and maintain gas venting and monitoring systems to prevent hazardous incidents.

The EMB stressed that preparedness is critical to minimizing risks to public safety, property, and the environment—especially during the ongoing period of extreme heat, when the likelihood of landfill fires and related hazards significantly increases.