Manila Mayor Isko Moreno Appeals for Extension on Unpaid Utility Bills
ISKO MORENO – The mayor of Manila City has appealed to utility and service providers for a two-month extension to settle over ₱133 million in unpaid bills. These include dues for essential city services such as electricity, water, telecommunications, and internet used by public schools, health centers, and government offices.
In a meeting held on Thursday, July 3, Mayor Moreno admitted that the city government is facing serious financial difficulties. Speaking candidly during a Facebook Live broadcast, he said, “Wala na kaming ka-pera-pera, as in literal.”
The mayor clarified that the issue is not political, nor is it about assigning blame. Instead, he emphasized the need for transparency with both the public and service providers during this challenging time. He explained that past mismanagement of city finances has led to the current situation and that his administration is now working to fix it.
Moreno humbly requested service providers not to proceed with service disconnections, as these would severely affect vital city operations. “I hope I’m not asking too much,” he said, “Puwede bang makisuyo na ‘wag niyo muna kaming putulan?.”
He acknowledged that businesses also need to earn and affirmed that services rendered should be paid. However, he stressed that cutting off services now would impact public health, education, and daily government operations.
Mayor Moreno assured residents that the city government is urgently working to resolve the issue. His team is actively seeking funding sources to avoid disruptions and settle all outstanding dues within the requested period.
Meanwhile, during his Inaugural State of the City Address on July 1, Mayor Isko Moreno also revealed massive cash advances made by city hall employees in 2024, including ₱1.161 billion withdrawn by Atty. Marlon Lacson in just six months.