In a gesture of unity and reconciliation, Manila Mayor-elect Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso paid a courtesy call on outgoing chief city executive Joseph “Erap” Estrada yesterday at the Manila City Hall.
Accompanied by three members of his transition team, Domagoso, wearing his trademark white polo shirt, shook hands with Estrada whom he previously served as vice mayor.
The last time the two were seen in public together was during the 2016 elections.
The 30-minute meeting was cordial, a stark contrast to the divisive campaign they waged in the previous months.
Estrada assured a smooth transition of office.
“We organized this turn-over ceremony to assure our people that the transition process in Manila will be smooth and respectful as it should be. Mayor Moreno and I both respect the democratic process tapos na po ang halalan, magkaisa na tayo para sa ating minamahal na lungsod,” Estrada said in his prepared speech.
“Umaasa naman ako na sana ipagpatuloy ni Mayor Moreno ang mga mahahalagang programa ng aking administrasyon,” he added.
Estrada was referring to the Manila Dialysis Center, scholarship for students in Manila, and the P500 birthday gifts for senior citizens.
In his impromptu response, Moreno said he will try his best to continue the existing programs and come up with better versions to fulfill his mandate to uplift the nation’s capital from further deterioration.
“No matter what color or political affiliation, we have to arrest the city’s freefall. We must humble ourselves not only for us but also for all Manilans,” Domagoso said.
During the brief meeting, the incoming mayor handed Estrada a letter formally requesting the turnover of important documents such as contracts, loan agreements, inventory, and audit reports, among others.
Before they made their speeches, Estrada asked Domagoso to try the “seat of power” which the former matinee idol reluctantly obliged.
The meeting was also attended by Honey Lacuna who won another term as vice mayor.
Domagoso, Lacuna, and the members of the city council are set to take their oaths on June 30. (Erma Edera)
