'I owe it to the people of Manila': Mayor Isko denies running for president in 2028
Manila Mayor Francisco "Isko Moreno" Domagoso (Photo from Manila PIO)
Manila Mayor Francisco "Isko Moreno" Domagoso on Monday, Jan. 19, reaffirmed his commitment to Manileños as their mayor, saying that he has no plans to run for president in the 2028 elections.
Domagoso made the statement during the flag-raising ceremony at the Manila City Hall attended by its employees.
"Mukhang hindi pa sila naka-move on sa eleksiyon, at mukhang pulutan na naman nila ako sa pulitika. Huwag na kayong umasa, kayo-kayo na lang mag-presidente. Tutal makukulong din naman kayo pagkatapos, eh. Naging habit na natin 'yan, eh. I really don't care, with all honesty (It seems like they haven't moved on from the election, and it looks like I'm the subject of their politicking again. Don't expect anything from me, just run for president yourselves. After all, you'll end up in jail afterwards, right? That's become a habit for us, right? I really don't care, with all honesty)," Domagoso said.
"I owe it to the people of Manila. This second win, I owe it to you. I will stay. I will stay if you allow me for the next 10 years of our lives," he added.
The mayor stressed that his priority is his mandate to the people of Manila and to continue the programs and initiatives being undertaken by the city government towards peace, quality public service, and the prosperity of the city.
In a TV interview in May last year, Domagoso had dismissed plans on running for higher posts in the 2028 elections, saying that he will finish his three terms as mayor of Manila if given the chance.
He also bared his "10-year plan" for Manileños aimed at addressing the minimum basic needs of the people such as housing, healthcare, education, and livelihood.