Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso addresses city officials and residents during his State of the City Address at the Quirino Grandstand on June 24, 2026, highlighting key programs and priorities as Manila celebrates its 455th founding anniversary.

Domagoso said City Hall inherited P14.6 billion in unpaid obligations, including overdue bills to garbage contractors and utility firms, alongside what he described as a financially strained budget.

“Through disciplined fiscal management, we turned debt into stability, and stability into better service for every Manileño.”

A year into his term, the mayor reported a 332-percent increase in business registrations and a 105-percent rise in renewals—figures he said signal renewed confidence in the capital.

Private construction investments also climbed sharply, with approved projects rising from P2.7 billion under the previous administration to P9.3 billion in the past year.

“Cities do not rise on resources alone; they rise on trust,” Domagoso said. “When Manila regained trust, it regained its future.”

On the fiscal front, the city has paid down P7.8 billion of its inherited debt, leaving P6.8 billion remaining. It has also cleared P307 million in overdue utility payments to Meralco, Maynilad, and Manila Water.

“Goodbye, Judith!” the mayor quipped, referring to unpaid utility dues left by the previous administration.

Revenue collection efficiency improved to 90.3 percent from 62.9 percent, while total revenues rose 24 percent, from P15.5 billion to P19.2 billion, despite global pressures such as rising oil prices and geopolitical tensions.

Domagoso also cited over P309 million collected in contractor’s tax following a city-led crackdown on flood control contractors, as well as strengthened coordination with the City Council under his “Bilis Kilos 2.0” governance approach.

He added that social programs, including expanded school and nutrition initiatives, continue alongside fiscal recovery efforts.

“Manila is no longer fighting for survival; Manila is now fighting for a better future,” Domagoso said as the city marks its 455th founding anniversary. “Manila is moving forward to make the capital city great again.”