Glen Mark Castronuevo:
Championing Waste Workers’ Rights and Sustainable Change

In the latest addition to our "Voice of Circular Economy" series, Eco Kolek is proud to introduce Glen Mark Castronuevo, our new Operations Staff. Glen’s journey with Eco Kolek is deeply personal, shaped by both his role as an Eco Warrior and his dedication to advocating for the rights of waste workers. As the President of the Samahan ng mga Mangangalakal ng Puerto Princesa (SMPP), Glen has been a tireless leader in improving the lives of waste collectors and advancing sustainable change within his community.

From Eco Warrior to Operations Staff

Glen’s connection to Eco Kolek goes back to the early days of the organization when he was among the first Eco Warriors in Barangay Sicsican. His commitment to environmental sustainability has always been intertwined with a passion for social justice, especially regarding the rights and welfare of waste workers. As one of the original Eco Warriors, Glen became increasingly aware of the challenges faced by waste collectors, including poor working conditions, lack of legal recognition, and inadequate social protection. This awareness ignited his determination to lead efforts to change these conditions.

Today, Glen continues his advocacy for waste workers, both as an Operations Staff member at Eco Kolek and as the President of SMPP. His role at Eco Kolek allows him to leverage his experience in waste management to improve processes and empower those in the field.

"Serving as both staff and the SMPP President allows me to advocate directly for the rights and welfare of my fellow waste workers," Glen shares. "Our registration with DOLE is a significant milestone in our journey toward legal recognition and social protection for all."

Advocating for Legal Recognition and Social Protection

Glen’s leadership in SMPP has been instrumental in securing legal recognition for waste workers. Under his guidance, the association has made significant strides in gaining legal status, which is essential for ensuring that waste workers are entitled to social protection, fair wages, and better working conditions. A pivotal moment in this journey was the SMPP’s registration with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), marking a critical milestone in their fight for worker rights.

This legal recognition not only affirms the waste workers’ rightful place in society but also paves the way for further improvements in their working conditions. Glen’s efforts are a testament to the collective power of organized workers and the lasting impact of grassroots advocacy.

A Dual Role in Building a Sustainable Future

As an Operations Staff at Eco Kolek, Glen plays a key role in shaping the way waste management programs are implemented in communities. His experience as both an Eco Warrior and the SMPP President provides him with a unique perspective on the challenges faced by waste workers, allowing him to advocate for more effective and equitable waste management solutions. His role ensures that waste workers are not only integral to the success of these programs but also receive the recognition and protection they deserve.

Glen’s dual commitment to community advocacy and sustainability ensures that Eco Kolek’s operations are inclusive and empowering. His leadership exemplifies Eco Kolek’s belief that sustainability is not just about protecting the environment but also about supporting the people who help preserve it.

Looking Forward: Empowering the Circular Economy

At Eco Kolek, we understand that a truly sustainable future requires inclusive growth, where everyone — including the workers on the ground — is empowered to thrive. Glen’s work represents this ethos, and with his leadership, Eco Kolek is more equipped than ever to continue building a circular economy that benefits both the environment and the people.

We are thrilled to have Glen on our team, bringing his passion for advocacy, leadership, and community empowerment to Eco Kolek and beyond. His efforts will undoubtedly continue to make a lasting difference, not only in waste management but also in the lives of the waste workers who are critical to achieving sustainable and inclusive change.