Estrada, Moreno working for smooth transition in Manila

MANILA, Philippines — Both the outgoing and incoming mayors of Manila said on Monday they were working for a smooth transition of power.

Incoming Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso paid a courtesy call on outgoing Mayor Joseph Estrada at the latter’s office at the Manila City Hall past 2 p.m.

This was the first time that Estrada and Domagoso met since the 2016 elections.

While Estrada wished to have a smooth transfer of duties to Moreno, he also asked the public to unite despite differences in political affiliations.

“We organized this turn-over ceremony to assure our people that the transition process in Manila will be smooth and respectful as it should be,” Estrada said in his speech at Manila City Hall. “Mayor Moreno and I both respect the democratic process. Tapos na po ang halalan. Magka-isa na tayo para sa ating minamahal na lungsod.”

[The elections are over. Let’s unite for the sake of our beloved city.]

Domagoso welcomed the “warm” meeting of the former President.

“Salamat sa mainit na pagtanggap dito sa inyong opisina. Nagpapakita lamang na malawak ang kaisipan ng ating mga alkalde,” he said.

[Thank for receiving me warmly in your office. This only shows how broadminded our mayors are.]

He also described the courtesy call as “a cordial meeting” but did not disclose anything on the topics that they discussed.

Domagoso is set to take his oath as Manila’s chief leader on June 30.

(Editor: Alexander T. Magno)