By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA, Philippines — Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso on Monday welcomed President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.‘s fifth State of the Nation Address (SONA 2026), pledging that the City of Manila would match the President’s confidence in local governments with concrete results and accountable governance.
In a statement issued after the President’s address, Domagoso said the administration’s recognition of local government units (LGUs) as key partners in national development reinforces the vital role of cities and municipalities in delivering essential public services.
“The President’s confidence in local governments is a responsibility that we must repay with results, not promises,” Domagoso said.
The Manila chief executive assured the President that the city government remains committed to sustaining programs aimed at maintaining a clean and orderly capital, improving healthcare and education, strengthening peace and order, modernizing public infrastructure, and ensuring that public funds are managed prudently and transparently for the benefit of Manileños.
Domagoso said President Marcos’ address highlighted several policy directions that would directly strengthen the capacity of local governments to deliver services, including the increase in the National Tax Allotment (NTA), the enhancement of the financial and administrative capabilities of LGUs, closer coordination between national government agencies and local governments, and greater devolution of responsibilities in implementing development programs.
He said these priorities complement Manila’s own governance agenda and reaffirm the city’s commitment to responsive and efficient public service.
The mayor also expressed support for the President’s plan to address inefficiencies and long-standing losses in the country’s electricity billing system, saying reforms that promote transparency, efficiency, and accountability in the power sector would help reduce unnecessary costs borne by consumers.
“We thank the President for taking concrete steps to address this concern, as reforms that promote greater efficiency, transparency, and accountability in the power sector will ultimately benefit millions of Filipinos, including the people of Manila,” Domagoso said.
Reaffirming the city’s commitment to work closely with the national government, Domagoso said Manila would continue to prioritize effective governance over politics.
“As we move forward, our commitment remains unchanged: less politics, more performance; less rhetoric, more action. Through genuine partnership between the national and local governments, we can build a stronger Manila and contribute to a stronger Philippines,” he said.
ia/xf
