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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider Metro Manila devider Isko highlights Manila as economic hub, cites 104% rise in new businesses

Isko highlights Manila as economic hub, cites 104% rise in new businesses

Published Feb 18, 2026 04:31 pm
Manila Mayor Isko Moreno described the capital as an economic crossroads after reporting a 104 percent increase in new business registrations.
Manila Mayor Isko Moreno leads directional meeting with the Manila City government officials (Photo from Manila PIO)
Manila Mayor Isko Moreno leads directional meeting with the Manila City government officials (Photo from Manila PIO)
Moreno said data from Jan. 1 to Feb. 13, showed that new business registrations more than doubled compared with the same period last year.
“We grew by 104 percent of new businesses registered in the City of Manila. Dumoble (It doubled),” he said.
The mayor attributed the increase to improvements in peace and order and the city’s efforts to create a more business-friendly environment. 
He noted that crime declined by 13 percent in the last quarter.
“Our crime rate at the end of last quarter dropped to negative 13 percent,” he said.
Moreno also pointed out that Manila’s population increases to about three million during the day, compared with roughly two million at night, underscoring the city’s strong commercial activity.
“We have about 2 million nighttime and 3 million daytime population. It's a huge market,” he said.
He assured entrepreneurs that the local government remains open to business while upholding discipline and fairness.
“No harm will come to you as long as I'm Mayor. Just do business, strive, and there is a big market in this city,” Moreno added.
The mayor urged stakeholders to sustain the city’s economic momentum and further strengthen Manila’s position as a key business hub in the country.

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