Returning Manila First District Congressman Candidate Manny Lopez emphasized the importance of strong leadership, responsible fiscal management, and a commitment to serving the people of Tondo, Manila during his guesting at a media news forum, hosted by the Manila City Hall Reporters' Association at the Harbor View Restaurant in Ermita, Manila.

On Thursday, Feb. 20, Lopez discussed the challenges of effective governance, focusing on the need for resourcefulness in managing the city’s finances. 

He highlighted the importance of having a clear vision and strategy for sustainable growth, emphasizing that leadership should be rooted in responsibility and accountability. 

“Dapat ang lider marunong maghanap ng pondo. Hindi 'yung utang ang solusyon (A leader should know how to find funds. It's not about relying on debt as the solution),” he said, stressing that real leadership lies in making decisions that secure the long-term welfare of the community.

Being a former two-term Tondo Congressman, he also underscored the value of financial stability, pointing to the strong leadership of Manila’s previous mayors, including his father, former Mayor Mel Lopez Jr., as well as former leaders Fred Lim, Lito Atienza, and Erap Estrada. 

He explained that their administrations left behind a financial cushion for future growth, with funds readily available for use in development programs and initiatives. 

Lopez expressed his belief that mayors should aim to secure the city’s future rather than leaving behind financial burdens.

One of Lopez's key points was the need for fiscal responsibility, calling for leaders who focus on acquiring assets and ensuring the city’s resources are used wisely. 

"Walang pag-aari ang Maynila na dapat ibenta. Instead, dapat ay mag-acquire kung magaling kang fiscal manager (Manila doesn't have properties that should be sold. Instead, you should acquire if you're a good fiscal manager)", Lopez said. 

He also emphasized the importance of maintaining and improving the city’s assets for the benefit of future generations.

Praising the leadership of current Mayor Honey Lacuna-Pangan, Lopez commended her effective fiscal management and her ability to navigate difficult financial challenges. “Mayor Lacuna has shown resourcefulness and determination in managing the city’s resources efficiently, even while working to pay off existing debts,” Lopez said. He also pointed out the Mayor’s commitment to building a transparent, honest, and sustainable city government.

Lopez also emphasized the importance of leadership grounded in integrity and honesty, particularly as he seeks re-election in the First District of Manila. While other candidates may resort to short-term tactics like distributing money to influence voters, Lopez expressed his confidence that Tondo residents value integrity and will make decisions based on a candidate's track record and ability to deliver results.

"Naniniwala ako na ang mga taga-Tondo ay may dangal at prinsipyo, higit sa ginto’t pilak. Kaya ipinagpapasa-Diyos ko ‘yan (I believe that the people of Tondo have dignity and principles, more valuable than gold and silver. That’s why I entrust it to God)," he said, reinforcing his commitment to clean governance and responsible leadership.

Running under the platform of "tapat at totoong pamumuno" (clean and honest governance), Lopez reaffirmed his dedication to serving the people of Tondo and Manila, working together with the incumbent mayor to ensure the city's continued growth and prosperity.