This study examined the improvements of initiatives and programs implemented in Marawi City’s solid waste management (SWM) system. It specifically identified ecological SWM programs funded by the city government, analyzed budget allocation strategies, assessed residents’ awareness and participation, and determined issues and challenges in implementation. Guided by the Political Economy of Fiscal Policy, Rational Choice, Public Choice, and Principal-Agent theories, the study explored how political and institutional factors influence local waste management.
A quantitative-descriptive design was used, involving selected city offices—CENRO, Budget Office, and General Services Office—and 233 residents from three barangays: Dimaluna, Rapasun, and Basak-Malutlut. Data were gathered through document analysis and survey questionnaires and analyzed using frequency, percentage, and weighted mean. Findings revealed that while several ecological SWM programs were implemented in compliance with Republic Act 9003, their execution remained limited, particularly at the barangay level. Budget allocation was generally effective but hindered by inadequate funds and delayed disbursement. Residents’ participation and awareness were also low. The study recommends strengthening community education, fiscal transparency, and inter-agency coordination, alongside investing in localized waste facilities and exploring innovative financing strategies to enhance sustainability and efficiency.