Rising waste collection costs behind garbage fee hike - Mayor Isko
Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso speaks during the live broadcast of “Talk to the People,” where he explains the reasons behind the increase in garbage collection fees in Manila (Photo courtesy of Manila Public Information Office)
Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso said on Monday, Jan. 19, that rising garbage collection costs are the reasons behind the increase in garbage fees currently being implemented by the Manila city government.
During his Talk to the People, the mayor said the last adjustment to garbage collection fees was made in 2013, prompting the city to implement an increase in 2026 to reflect the actual cost of waste collection and disposal.
According to Domagoso, several factors contributed to the higher expenses, including the nearly doubled volume of garbage generated in the city, rising fuel prices, increased wages of garbage collectors, longer hauling distances to the San Mateo, Rizal landfill, and outstanding commercial obligations left behind by the previous administration.
The mayor said the decision to raise the garbage fee was difficult but necessary to address the city’s financial challenges.
He emphasized that the city government chose to prioritize funding for basic public services over allowing a large portion of its budget to be consumed by garbage hauling costs.
Domagoso appealed to Manileños and business owners to support the city’s efforts in addressing its waste management concerns, emphasizing that garbage management is a shared responsibility.
“Help me, garbage problem is a shared responsibility. Tulong tulong tayo (Let's help each other). Help me to make Manila great again,” the mayor said.
The city government continues to urge residents and stakeholders to cooperate in waste reduction and proper disposal as part of its efforts to improve sanitation and public services in Manila.