Lina, speaking at an event in Manila, said Domagoso’s performance in city governance has not gone unnoticed, even outside local government circles.

“Marami nang nagsasabi na dapat maging presidente itong taong ito sa ganda ng kanyang ginagawa, sa galing ng kanyang ginagawa. Huwag mo masyadong galingan, Mayor, kasi napipilitan ’yung iba na ikaw ang isabong dito sa 2028 (A lot of people are already saying that this man should become president because of how well he is doing, how excellent his work is. Don’t do too well, Mayor, because you’re making others feel compelled to field you (as a candidate) in 2028),” Lina said, drawing laughter from the audience.

His remarks come amid renewed public chatter on potential national candidates ahead of the 2028 elections, with local executives often being mentioned in speculative lists due to their visibility in urban governance.

Domagoso, however, quickly downplayed the suggestion of any national political ambition, reiterating that his focus remains firmly on Manila and its residents.

“Huwag ka mag-alala. Ayokong tumakbong presidente na. Huwag kayong mag-alala, todits na lang ako sa gedli. Okay na ako todits dito sa Maynila. Hayaan na natin sila doon. Masyadong makulay doon ang politika. Ngunit dito, kaya nating gawing makulay ang Lungsod ng Maynila (Don’t worry. I don’t want to run for president anymore. Don’t worry, I’ll just stay here on the side. I’m fine staying here in Manila. Let’s just leave them over there. Politics over there is too colorful. But here, we can make the City of Manila vibrant),” the mayor said.

He stressed that governance in the capital city requires full attention, noting that Manila continues to face complex urban challenges that demand sustained local action rather than political distraction.

Domagoso added that while national politics can be “colorful,” his priority is to continue improving basic services, infrastructure, and daily life in the city.