Isko Moreno eyes to reclaim Manila mayoralty, to challenge ex-running mate Honey Lacuna

MANILA, Philippines — Former Manila City Mayor Isko Moreno Domagoso, more commonly known as Moreno, backtracked on his earlier announcement to retire from politics, filing his certificate of candidacy before the Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Tuesday, October 8. 

Following his failed presidential bid in the 2022 national elections, Moreno seeks to reclaim the mayoral post from incumbent Manila City Mayor Honey Lacuna who is aiming for a second term.

Moreno had previously said in December 2021 that he would leave politics if he did not win the presidency.

"Pahinga na rin. Tapos na ako, I did my share (Time to rest. I’m done, I did my share)," is what the former mayor said. 

Running for vice mayor alongside Moreno is Chi Atienza, daughter of former Manila mayor and former Buhay Party-list representative Lito Atienza.

The two will campaign under Aksyon Demokratiko, where Moreno currently serves as president.

Moreno served a single term as Manila’s mayor from 2019 to 2022, succeeding ousted president Joseph Estrada, who held the post for two terms.

Before becoming mayor, the actor turned politician, Moreno, was the city's vice mayor for three terms from 2007 to 2016.

In an ambush interview on Tuesday, Moreno said he was pushed by the calls of people who were telling him to return as Manila City’s mayor. 

Should he be elected once again, he said that he would focus first on an in-city vertical housing program by donating three 20-story residences.

Supporters of Moreno gathered at Arroceros Forest Park, carrying banners that read, “Bumalik ka na! (Come back now!),” urging the former mayor to return as the city's top official.

This contrasts with the slogan chanted by incumbent Mayor Lacuna's supporters during her filing of candidacy: “Walang magbabalik! (No one will return!).”

When asked about Moreno's sudden decision to run for mayor, Lacuna said she was puzzled by her former running mate’s change of heart in choosing to challenge her.

RELATED: Honey Lacuna wishes 'brother' Isko Moreno 'good luck' as she files her COC

While accompanying Rep. Joel Chua (Manila, 3rd District) during his COC filing on Tuesday, Lacuna was asked again if she still feels betrayed. 

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