Former Manila Mayor Isko Moreno has revealed a worrying situation regarding the return of the city of Manila to its previous state—slumpy, messy, and full of problems. The former mayor, who is known for implementing innovative solutions in urban planning, expressed his disappointment at the seeming disregard for his achievements during his tenure.
“It is sad to see Manila seeming to return to its previous state. The environment has become slumpy again and residents seem to have lost discipline. The reforms we have worked hard for are a waste,” said Isko Moreno in an exclusive interview. He cited the resurgence of illegal vendors on major thoroughfares, piles of garbage on the streets, and the inaction of the current city government.
His policies in the past to clean up Divisoria, Quiapo, and other areas in the city brought about change and admiration from the public. But according to him, those efforts seem to have been sidelined after his term. “Maintaining order is not easy, but Manileños are disciplined when there is guidance and a strong government,” he added.
Moreno also couldn’t help but give suggestions to the current Manila administration. “What the city needs is clear direction and discipline. Violations cannot be ignored and chaos and chaos can’t continue.”
Some Manila residents who are disappointed with what is happening in their city also reacted. “It’s like we’re going back to the way things were. It’s disappointing because we saw the change when Mayor Isko was in charge,” said Mang Ramon, a businessman in Divisoria.
As the city of Manila faces ongoing challenges, many are hopeful that its former vitality and order will be restored. The question now is whether Manila can recover from the current situation or will Isko Moreno’s reforms fade away completely?
Ex-Mayor Isko: ‘They’re worried that Manila has become a mess again’
Manila mayoral candidate Isko Moreno Domagoso revealed the concerns of Manilans–that “Manila has become a mess again.”
Isko said this during their campaign kickoff last Friday, March 28, at R-10 Road in Manila.
“At our townhall, one thing is common: Their worry now is that Manila has become a mess again… Just kidding, it’s nine in the morning but the garbage is still on the streets. Manilans are really complaining about that,” he said.
Because of this, the former mayor promised to clean up and improve the city.
“Second, aside from cleaning up Manila, we will restore the stability of life in Manila. And that’s why, as you all know, why are we starting with R-10? This R-10, in the past weeks, months, or years, has been in the news. Here it was seen as if there was no government in Manila, so mothers and fathers are once again afraid that their children might be harmed because the migrants are returning to Manila,” Domagoso added.
Domagoso also encouraged his supporters to stay focused and not fight with supporters of other candidates.