Sam Verzosa Dares Isko Moreno to a Debate
SAM VERZOSA – Manila mayoral aspirant Sam Verzosa has expressed his willingness to engage in a public debate with rival Isko Moreno.
Sam Verzosa has openly expressed his readiness to engage in a public debate with former Manila Mayor Isko Moreno, saying he’s prepared to go head-to-head “anytime, anywhere.” The statement was made during the Pandesal Forum held on April 14 in Quezon City.
When asked about the possibility of a face-off with Moreno, Verzosa responded with confidence, stating that his team is willing to organize the event. “Handa po tayong lumaban at sumagot. Sabi ko nga, kailangan magkaroon ng debate,” he said. Verzosa emphasized the importance of such discussions, stressing that voters deserve to hear each candidate’s plans and platforms firsthand.
“Kailangang magkaroon ng talakayan para malaman ng mga tao kung ano ang plano ng bawat isa. Sobrang importante yan. Bukod doon sa salita, maramdaman nila kami,” he explained. He warned voters about being swayed by candidates who use “flowery words” but fail to deliver when given the chance to lead.
“Marami ang magagaling magsalita at matatamis ang mga dila. Sasabihin lang nila yung gusto nyong marinig. Pero noong nabigyan naman sila ng pagkakataon, hindi naman nagawa,” Verzosa added.
The congressman stressed that his challenge was not personal. Rather, he sees it as a critical step for the future of Manila. “Sana huwag po kayong umatras sa isang matalinong pagdedebate. Hindi ito personalan. Ito po ay para sa kinabukasan ng mga Manilenyo,” he said, addressing Moreno directly.
Verzosa posed several questions to his rival: “Ano’ng plano mo? Ano’ng kaya mong gawin? Ano’ng kaibahan mo ngayon sa dati? At masagot na lahat ng mga issue sa Maynila.” He also urged Moreno not to back down from the opportunity to face the public and answer pressing issues.
Recent surveys reflect Verzosa’s growing momentum. From 3.7% in October 2024 (Laylo Research), he surged to 17% by December. OCTA Research’s January 2025 poll showed him with 15%, putting him in second place, trailing behind frontrunner Isko Moreno and just ahead of incumbent Mayor Honey Lacuna.
As the 2025 elections near, Verzosa’s challenge sets the stage for a potential showdown that could influence the direction of Manila’s political future.
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