CITY OF MANILA — Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso laid out his administration’s push for technology-driven governance and inclusive social services during the Kapihan sa Manila Prince forum on July 29, 2026. The event was hosted by former Senator Joey Lina and former Press Secretary Sonny Coloma.
Mayor Moreno emphasized that digitalization is at the core of efforts to eliminate corruption in city transactions. By reducing human intervention in government processes, the city has streamlined its one-stop shop for business registrations and permits — an initiative recently recognized by the Anti-Red Tape Authority (ARTA) for its efficiency and transparency.
“Technology levels the playing field and removes opportunities for favoritism,” Moreno said. “When transactions are automated, services are delivered based on compliance and merit, not on who you know.”
On social services, the Mayor stressed that benefits are extended to all qualified Manileños regardless of economic status. Under the city’s senior citizen program, all residents who have reached the eligible age receive the same privileges — including birthday cakes, a measure Moreno openly acknowledged was adapted from the practice of Makati City to ensure no qualified senior is left behind.
“Senior citizens deserve honor and care whether they are rich or poor,” Moreno stated. “Public service should not discriminate based on what you have.”
The Mayor also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to equal opportunity across all sectors, from healthcare and education to livelihood support. A key priority is the establishment of a College of Medicine with additional facilities at the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (PLM), backed by the city government’s funding, to produce more medical professionals for the capital and the country.
“Our goal is to build a Manila where every resident — young or old, rich or poor — has equal access to the opportunities and services they need to thrive,” Moreno added.
Isko Moreno: Manila to Boost Bamboo Industry, Convert Dumpsites to Green Spaces and Housing Sites
CITY OF MANILA — Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso bared plans to boost the bamboo industry and transform former waste disposal areas into productive, green communities during the Kapihan sa Manila Prince forum on July 29, 2026, hosted by former Senator Joey Lina and former Press Secretary Sonny Coloma.
“Bamboo is not a tree — it is a grass,” Moreno emphasized, highlighting its unique qualities that make it ideal for Manila’s environmental and economic goals.
The city will plant bamboo across a one-hectare upcoming public park, with the species also strategically placed along roadsides. According to the Mayor, bamboo’s extensive root system effectively absorbs excess water, helping reduce flooding in flood-prone areas of the capital. The initiative also aims to develop a sustainable local bamboo industry that can generate livelihood for residents.
Moreno said the project is part of broader efforts to rehabilitate and convert former garbage disposal sites into greener, more useful spaces.
Addressing the housing needs of Manileños, the Mayor also announced plans to provide decent condominium units measuring 42 square meters each for families who are currently renting or have no permanent homes.
On relocation, Moreno stressed a firm policy: no resident will be moved out of the city unless they are provided with a decent home and a source of livelihood.
“We will not relocate our constituents far away without giving them a proper place to live and a way to provide for their families,” Moreno said. “Public service means building a Manila where people have both a healthy environment and a dignified life.”
