Ombudsman Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla urged mayors to closely monitor officials and offices under their supervision amid concerns over alleged corruption involving garbage collection and waste management contracts.

Speaking on DZRH's Executive Session program on Saturday, August 8, Remulla clarified that his earlier remarks about mayors being involved in garbage-related contracts were a general statement.

Remulla said some mayors choose not to participate in alleged garbage collection “rackets,” citing Metro Manila mayors Vico Sotto and Joy Belmonte as examples of local officials who, he said, do not engage in such practices.

However, he said mayors should still ensure that offices under their authority, including business processing and licensing offices and those issuing permits, are not involved in irregularities.

“Lahat ’yan, check niyo. You should be aware of people under you who are committing shenanigans,” Remulla said.

Remulla had previously described garbage collection and waste management contracts as among the biggest corruption-driven businesses involving mayors in cities and municipalities across the country.

He also challenged the public to report irregularities involving local government offices and provide copies of complaints to the Ombudsman.

“Kung may reklamo kayo sa mayor sa nangyayari sa mayor o kaya sa bayan na ‘yan, nag-aapply kayo ng lisensya, ‘yong reklamo n’yo sa mayor, furnish us a copy,” Remulla said.

He also urged those who are allegedly denied business permits to report the matter.