Mayor Francisco Domagoso has declared a state of emergency in Manila after months of uncollected garbage left the city’s streets in disarray. The crisis has intensified as contractors responsible for waste collection have reportedly stopped services, citing unpaid bills. This has led to a massive accumulation of trash, creating unsanitary conditions and posing health risks to residents.
Domagoso’s declaration comes amid growing public frustration and concern over the deteriorating urban environment. Officials have been scrambling to address the backlog of waste, but the lack of a clear resolution has raised questions about the city’s ability to manage its waste infrastructure. The mayor’s office has since announced efforts to secure funding and hold contractors accountable, but many residents remain skeptical about the effectiveness of these measures.
The ongoing situation highlights the broader challenges facing Manila’s municipal services, including insufficient funding and corruption allegations that have plagued waste management efforts. With the city’s population continuing to grow, the crisis underscores the urgent need for long-term solutions to ensure clean and habitable living conditions for all residents.