In a recent radio program broadcast, Ombudsman Remulla candidly asserted that garbage contracts have turned into lucrative profit centers for local chief executives across the country. The Coalition welcomed Ombudsman Remulla’s initiative to re-establish the Environmental Ombudsman Program in January 2026. “We commend the re-establishment of the Environmental Ombudsman Program after nearly seven years of inactivity,” said the EcoWaste Coalition. The EcoWaste Coalition reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with local governments, waste workers, and communities to advance sustainable waste solutions. The group reiterated that addressing national waste challenges requires transparent governance, thorough oversight by regulatory bodies, and the steadfast, uncompromised enforcement of R.A. 9003.