Senator Win Gatchalian has urged the Office of the Ombudsman to intensify its crackdown on bureaucratic red tape, calling it the “biggest roadblock” to economic progress and efficient delivery of government services.
“Imbes na padaliin natin ang buhay ng mga negosyante natin, intentionally or unintentionally, pinahihirapan natin,” said Gatchalian, who chairs the Senate Committee on Finance.
The senator appealed to Ombudsman Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla to use his prosecutorial powers against public officials who deliberately delay or complicate government transactions.
“Meron tayong Anti-Red Tape Authority pero ang prosecution rests with the Ombudsman. This is something that we need to look at dahil ito ang pumapatay sa negosyo,” he stressed.
Remulla earlier committed to strengthening coordination between his office and the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) to eliminate bureaucratic bottlenecks and streamline processes, in line with the government’s push to improve the ease of doing business.
He pointed out that delayed approvals — such as those involving permits for cell site construction — have long hindered improvements in the country’s internet connectivity.
“This has to end. We have to get everyone in stride and on the same page,” Remulla said during a Senate hearing on his office’s proposed 2026 budget.
Gatchalian’s call echoes his earlier criticism of government agencies whose inefficiency, he said, burdens consumers and discourages investment.