Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso lauded the Supreme Court’s dismissal of a petition seeking to block the city’s increased garbage collection fees, calling the ruling a victory for the rule of law and responsible waste management.
“We welcome the Supreme Court’s resolution dismissing the petition against Manila City Ordinance No. 9151, and we thank the Honorable Court for upholding the rule of law. The updated garbage collection fees are necessary to sustain efficient waste management services in our city and to ensure that Manila remains clean and orderly,” Domagoso said in a statement on March 16.
The petition, filed by Las Piñas teacher Barry Tayam, sought a Temporary Restraining Order against the ordinance. But in its Feb. 25 resolution, the SC en banc ruled Tayam lacked legal standing, noting he was merely a “tourist” in Manila and not directly affected by the measure.
The Court also stressed that the ordinance imposes regulatory fees, not taxes, and that factual issues—such as whether public hearings were held—must first be resolved in lower courts.
Ordinance No. 9151, approved by the Manila City Council, adjusts garbage collection fees based on the actual volume of waste generated by businesses.
Establishments producing more garbage are charged higher rates, a system the council says promotes fairness and encourages waste reduction.
Domagoso assured residents that the city government will continue implementing policies that safeguard public health, protect the environment, and improve services for Manileños. (Patrick Garcia)
