New Manila mayor impresses DILG chief

In a statement on Saturday, Año lauded Moreno for clearing streets particularly in Divisoria and Carriedo of illegal vendors, cleaning waterways of informal settlers, and implementing anti-gambling program. (File Photo: Isko Moreno Domagoso/Facebook)

MANILA — New Manila Mayor Francisco ‘Isko’ Moreno has impressed not only netizens but Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Eduardo M. Año for showing political will to address ‘insurmountable’ challenges in the capital city of the Philippines.

In a statement on Saturday, Año lauded Moreno for clearing streets particularly in Divisoria and Carriedo of illegal vendors, cleaning waterways of informal settlers, and implementing anti-gambling program.

“Manila is the showcase of the Philippines. It is the first place foreigners see when they come to our country, so I’m pleased that in the first weeks of his administration, Mayor Isko has already shown that the challenges of the city are not insurmountable and can be addressed with political will and commitment,” he said.

Año said the challenge now for Moreno is to sustain “these worthwhile programs” in the next three years of his administration, particularly the removal of informal settlers along esteros (estuary) and other danger zones.

“The city government’s cooperation in the Manila Bay Rehabilitation Program is crucial because some of the most heavily polluted waterways are in the City of Manila so we look forward to working with him closely in order to return Manila Bay to its pristine beauty as directed by President (Rodrigo) Duterte,” the DILG chief said.

“We hope that the actions of Mayor Isko will inspire other local chief executives in other parts of the country to follow his example and to similarly show decisive leadership in bringing about change in their communities because that is what the people expect,” he added.

Moreno defeated an incumbent mayor, former President Joseph Ejercito ‘Erap’ Estrada, in the last May 13 mid-term national and local elections.

Aside from Moreno, Año also commended other young and dynamic local leaders like Pasig Mayor Vico Sotto and Makati Mayor Abby Binay, for showing strong political will in solving many problems in their respective areas of jurisdiction.

“Our young leaders can count on our support to implement their good governance agenda. That is why the DILG is here. We are not only your supervisors, we are also your partners and mentors, your guidance counselors and your cheerleaders. Your success is our success as well,” Año said.

He said the DILG has been helping new elected local leaders in crafting their respective first 100 days agenda to align these “with national programs”.

“All our local chief executives nationwide can count on our support in improving your communities especially in peace and order, the war against illegal drugs, and in stamping out illegal activities in your respective jurisdictions,” he said.