Manila City Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno" Domagoso has ordered the release of P42.6 million in long-delayed benefits to 92 retired city employees, fulfilling a commitment to settle outstanding obligations despite the city’s tight fiscal position.

During the local government's flag-raising ceremony on Monday, Jan. 12, Domagoso said the payout covers retirees with service records ranging from nearly two decades to more than four decades.

“I will give what is due to you,” Domagoso said.

The benefits vary depending on years of service and accrued entitlements, with some retirees receiving over P2 million each.

The City Treasurer’s Office readied the checks, which were released the same day.

Domagoso acknowledged that several retirees had waited years for their benefits, noting that the delay had eroded trust in government and affected morale among city workers.

“Sa inyong lahat na nasa harapan namin, na kapwa naming naglingkod sa bayan: Maraming, maraming salamat sa paglilingkod sa kapwa (To all of you here before us, our fellow public servants: Thank you very much for serving others),” he said.

The mayor also recognized the city’s longest-serving retiree, Roman Bandin of the City General Services Office, who logged 44 years and nine months of service before retiring in February 2024.

Domagoso called the milestone a reminder of the dedication and sacrifices of rank-and-file employees.

He said the payout was made even as the city continues to face legacy obligations and ongoing budget pressures, emphasizing that payments are being sequenced to avoid creating new arrears while gradually settling old ones.

“Kahit na tayo’y gipit na gipit, pipilitin kong iraos ang ating lungsod, partikular ang ating mamamayan (Even if we are extremely tight on funds, I will make sure to sustain the city, particularly for our citizens),” Domagoso said.

The mayor also urged city employees to maintain professionalism in dealing with taxpayers, stressing that fiscal recovery depends not only on revenue collection but also on quality service and public trust.

“Unawain natin ang ating mga taxpayer. Give them special attention. Make them feel that worth every penny ang binibigay nila (Let us understand our taxpayers. Give them special attention. Make them feel that every peso they give is worth it),” Domagoso said.