Mayor Francisco “Isko” Moreno Domagoso vowed to “make Manila great again” as he reported key accomplishments in his first 100 days in office, including the collection of over ₱160 million in contractors’ tax and expanded delivery of essential city services.
Speaking at the first “Kapihan ng Samahang Plaridel” media forum at the Rizal Park Hotel, Moreno said the city government is working to bring quality public services to residents—from free medical care and education to housing programs, efficient garbage collection, and allowances for teachers and senior citizens.
“I assure everyone that there is now a functioning government in Manila. While not perfect, we are doing everything we can to improve people’s lives. I will leave it to my fellow Manileños to judge our performance,” Moreno said during the event sponsored by PAGCOR.
Moreno, who served as Manila’s 27th mayor from 2019 to 2022 before winning another term in the May 2025 elections, said the city successfully collected ₱160 million in contractors’ tax from various flood control projects.
The Tondo-born mayor, who turns 51 on October 21, said the city has also provided ₱58 million in subsidies to the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (PLM) and ₱25 million in allowances for nearly 11,000 teaching and non-teaching personnel. The local government is likewise preparing to distribute financial aid to senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and solo parents.
“The hard work and perseverance of the City Government of Manila are finally bearing fruit,” Moreno said.
The actor-turned-politician also reiterated that he has no plans to seek higher office in 2028, stressing that he remains focused on serving as mayor.
“I am deeply grateful to the people of Manila for giving me a second chance to serve,” he said, also thanking his family for their continued support.
Veteran journalists Raymond Burgos and Carmelita “Twinkle” Valdez moderated the event, organized by the Association of Philippine Journalists–Samahang Plaridel, now led by president Evelyn Quiroz.
Founded in 2002, Samahang Plaridel counts among its founding members media luminaries such as Max Soliven, Adrian Cristobal, Neil Cruz, Crispulo Icban, Rod Reyes, Carmen Guerrero Nakpil, Jullie Yap Daza, and Rollie Estabillo.
