Manila City Mayor Francisco “Isko” Moreno Domagoso spotlighted the capital’s economic potential as he pitched Manila as a “melting pot” and “huge market” for investors.
Domagoso assured entrepreneurs that the city government remains open to business while maintaining peace and order.
“No harm will come to you as long as I’m Mayor. But in the same manner, I will not also allow abuse to one another. Just do business, strive, and there is a big market in this city,” the mayor said.
He noted that Manila’s population swells significantly during the day, reaching about three million, compared to roughly two million at night, emphasizing the capital’s role as a commercial and employment hub.
“We have about 2 million nighttime and 3 million daytime population. It’s a huge market.”
“We have about 2 million nighttime and 3 million daytime population. It’s a huge market,” Domagoso said.
He also cited data comparing January 1 to February 13, 2026 with the same period in 2025, reporting that new business registrations grew by 104 percent under the current administration.
“We grew by 104% of new businesses registered in the City of Manila.”
“We grew by 104% of new businesses registered in the City of Manila. Dumoble,” Domagoso noted.
He linked the surge in business activity to his administration’s efforts to improve public safety, disclosing that crime dropped by 13 percent in the last quarter.
“Our crime rate at the end of last quarter dropped to negative 13%,” Domagoso said, adding that the local government aims to ensure a clean and orderly city for residents and investors alike.
He added that sustained peace and economic momentum would depend on collective effort, urging stakeholders to participate in rebuilding and strengthening the capital.
“Buong kababang-loob, nakikisuyo ako sa inyo: tulungan po ninyo ako. Because I cannot do this on my own alone. I need each and every one of you to participate in your own little way because together we can make Manila great again,” Domagoso concluded.
