Manila City Mayor Isko Moreno Domagoso apologized on Monday, November 24, for the absence of Christmas parols across the city despite the holiday season fast approaching.
“Pasensiya na kayo, ha? Wala akong ilalagay na parol sa buong Maynila. Pagpasensiyahan n’yo na ako, eh kasi that would cost ₱14 million,” the mayor said.
He added, “Eh, ayaw ko namang makapamuhay nang marangya tapos magdadahilan ako sa inyo ng ‘nganga.’ Pero hindi ibig sabihin n’un walang parol, walang Pasko. Basta ang importante sa Pasko, nand’yan ang pamilya natin.”
Domagoso explained that the city had to prioritize clearing unpaid utility dues inherited from the previous administration, amounting to over ₱317.16 million.
According to the City Treasurer’s Office, the payments included ₱217 million to MERALCO (covering September 2024 to May 2025), ₱9 million to telecommunication companies, ₱73 million to Maynilad for October 2024, and ₱16 million to Manila Water.
Despite the budget constraints, Manila successfully released ₱317 million in year-end bonuses and cash gifts for regular city hall employees on November 17.
Mayor Isko also announced a ₱171 million allowance allocation for senior citizens. Each registered senior citizen will receive ₱6,000 on December 11, 12, and 13 to help support their daily and medical needs.