New Biking Trail Spotted! Former Payatas Dumpsite Converted Into Eco-park

The Payatas dumpsite in Quezon City has an ill-famed history after a slope of accumulated rubbish caused a landslide in 2000, claiming the lives of more than 200 people. There are also the environmental and health risks it poses to the nearby Novaliches Reservoir and Marikina River System, as well as informal settlers who live close to the disposal site.

Earlier this March, Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte shared the excellent news about the conversion of the dumpsite into an eco-friendly bike trail. Belmonte, together with Assistant City Administrator Alberto Kimpo, carried out an inspection along the bike trails to ensure the cyclists’ safety before its opening. It will be accessible to the public soon.

Since the closure of the dumpsite in 2004, the local government of Quezon City redeveloped it into a controlled disposal facility to “use this land in an innovative and climate friendly way that provides new economic opportunities for the community,” according to data from global organization C40 Reinventing Cities.

The rehabilitation of the old Payatas to remove the existing toxic gases and soils that surround the area are the primary goals of the rehabilitation project that is currently underway. Part of the local government’s top priorities is to bring back biodiversity and cut down on greenhouse gas emissions.

Aside from being a safe biking spot, the “new economically productive natural environment” of the Payatas Controlled Disposal Facility also aims to provide space for agriculture, a native tree nursery, and light structures to support eco-friendly activities. 

To learn more about other initiatives being carried out in Payatas, visit quezoncity.gov.ph.