Moreno ready to be ‘citizen Isko’

MANILA, Philippines — Manila Mayor Francisco Moreno yesterday said he is ready to be “citizen Isko” after losing in the presidential race.

In an interview after the flag-raising rites yesterday, Moreno said he does not regret running for president and bowing out of city hall after just one term.

He will be succeeded at city hall by his vice mayor, Honey Lacuna.

“I’m always grateful. I started out collecting trash for a living. I came from nothing. I have a lot to be thankful for,” said Moreno, who grew up in Tondo and made ends meet as a scavenger and later as an actor.

Asked what he will do once his term as mayor ends on June 30, Moreno replied while laughing, “I will be citizen Isko.”

He urged the public to support the incoming administration of Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.

“I encourage the people to move on with their lives and support the new government… We must help the new administration. I will help as a responsible citizen,” said Moreno, who promised to retire from politics after his failed presidential bid.

He cautioned the public against joining anti-government protests, and cited the need to “mend broken ties due to politics.”

Moreno received over 1.9 million votes, landing at fourth place in the race, based on the official partial count as of May 13.