Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso reported various initiatives of the city government of Manila that helped improve the economy and boost infrastructure during his first year in office, while also focusing on plans and programs undertaken to mitigate the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Despite Covid-19, “the state of the city is strong and it’s future secure,” Domagoso said in his second State of the City Address on Thursday.
“Every generation is faced with a crisis that tests their mettle and probes the strength of their character. The Covid-19 pandemic is not only the battle of Manila but also the battle of our generation,” he said.
He also praised the employees of the city for helping them raise the revenues amid the difficulties they faced during the stricter lockdown.
“Pinakasamakit, habang pa-take off pa lang tayo tinamaan tayo ng pandemya, huminto ang mundo , pero magkaganun pa man nakuha pa natin itaas ang income, bagay na aking ipinagpapasalamat sa mga empleyado ng lungsod ng Maynila.”
[The saddest part is that, while we are trying to take off, the pandemic hit us. But despite that, we managed to raise our revenues, thanks to the employees of the city.]
Domagoso also provided tax amnesty to those unable to pay their taxes, as he promised during his campaign period.
Under his administration, the city’s revenue collection grew by PHP693 million compared to that of the previous administration from July 2018 to May 2019. The “Go! Manila” mobile application made transactions easier for citizens, which greatly helped especially during the pandemic.
Domagoso also made a promise continue with the infrastructure projects in the city and “bring back the glory of Manila” through physical development projects. The mayor adopted the national policy and called it #BuildBuildManila.”
Domagoso assured Manilenyos that they will continue with the ongoing efforts in fighting and mitigating the effects of Covid-19,
He also vowed to continue to create more programs to improve the economy and provide opportunities as the city affronts and lives with the “new normal”.
