by: Charles Nikko Limon 

The death toll from the landfill collapse in Cebu City has risen to 22, as authorities continued search and recovery operations more than a week after the tragedy.

The incident happened on January 8 at a landfill in Barangay Binaliw, where tons of garbage suddenly collapsed and buried nearby structures and residents.

Three people survived the incident, while more than 20 were initially reported missing.

After days of intensive search operations, authorities confirmed that the 22nd victim was recovered at around noon on January 15.

Fourteen individuals remain unaccounted for.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources earlier issued a cease and desist order against the landfill following the incident.

The Cebu City government also declared a state of calamity to speed up search and rescue operations and provide assistance to affected families.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who had just returned from a working visit to the United Arab Emirates, said those responsible for the tragedy would be held accountable.

During his visit to Tsuneishi Heavy Industries in Balamban, Cebu, the President assured the public that the government would pursue justice for the victims and support the families affected by the disaster.

In honor of those who died, the Cebu City government declared January 16 as a day of mourning.

Local officials said the declaration is meant to allow residents to grieve collectively and remember the lives lost in the tragic incident.