Manila City Mayor Francisco “Isko” Moreno Domagoso said that the city is stepping up efforts to equip residents with in-demand skills and entrepreneurial know-how to meet industry needs despite economic challenges here and abroad.
Domagoso made the statement as he led the graduation rites of the Manila Manpower Development Center (MMDC) under the Manila Department of Social Welfare (MDSW) led by Director Jay Dela Fuente, where 751 graduates completed various livelihood and skills training programs.
In recognizing the MDSW, MMDC and Dela Fuente, the mayor stressed that the city’s policy direction is anchored on preparing citizens to seize job opportunities and start businesses in Manila’s growing economic environment.
“The city government’s direction is to equip yung mga indibidwal, bata man o matanda, na gusto magkaroon ng means and tools for livelihood.”
“The city government’s direction is to equip yung mga indibidwal, bata man o matanda, na gusto magkaroon ng means and tools for livelihood,” he said.
Domagoso also acknowledged the role of national government partners, particularly the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).
He said the city’s programs aim not only to help residents secure employment but also to encourage entrepreneurship in a welcoming business climate.
“Sa mga negosyante, welcome sila sa Maynila, magnegosyo sila sa Maynila, maghanapbuhay sila sa Maynila, dahil ang Maynila ay well-equipped and ready to take their job opportunities,” he said.
Domagoso urged the graduates to make the most of the opportunities provided by the local government and to aim for excellence in their chosen fields.
“Ang pakiusap ko sa inyo, galingan ninyo sa inyong field of undertaking. Sa mga magbubukas ng negosyo na inyong papasukan, sa inyong mga kliyente o boss na inyong mame-meet, don’t take the opportunities lightly,” he said.
He earlier emphasized that boosting human capital is part of a broader vision for socio-economic resilience.
“We abound in human capital.”
“We abound in human capital. Ang Manileño ay malikhain at madiskarte, edukado at pursigido sa pagtataguyod sa sarili. Let us capitalize on these strengths to attract visitors and investors, increase the productivity of residents, and become a more resilient and progressive city,” he said in his inaugural address.
Domagoso assured that the city will continue to invest in programs like those offered by the MMDC, which has been providing skills and livelihood training for 45 years.
“Go on, continue. We will always support this kind of venture and activities to make our citizens productive in the City of Manila,” he said.
