Mayor Isko: Classes in Manila to continue despite transport strike
File Photo | Manila City Hall
Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno" Domagoso announced that classes in the city, whether face-to-face or online, will continue as scheduled despite the planned nationwide transport strike from Wednesday to Friday, Sept. 17 to 19.
“Oo, tuloy ang eskwela (Classes continue). It cannot be held hostage, eh. Life must go on,” the mayor said during a briefing with members of the NCRPO Press Club on Wednesday.
Domagoso emphasized that education must not be disrupted, even amid social or political demonstrations.
He affirmed that the City of Manila will adopt a policy of “maximum tolerance”, in line with the national directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.
In anticipation of potential disruptions, the mayor said the local government is preparing support measures not only for commuters but also for both protesters and law enforcement personnel.
While respecting the public’s right to protest, the mayor called on demonstrators to exercise restraint and avoid vandalism or damage to public property, citing the cost burden this places on the city and taxpayers.
“’Yung mga ini-spray, ipinanghihingi ko, pinangmamalimos ko pa sa Boysen saka sa Davis ’yung pintura (The paint that gets sprayed, I have to ask for that, even beg for it from Boysen and Davis).”
He explained that repeated acts of vandalism require additional city resources, including donations from private paint companies, and emphasized that such damage detracts from the larger message of peaceful protest.
Further details regarding the city’s support initiatives during the transport strike are expected to be released soon through official Manila City government channels.