From Manila PIO
MANILA, Philippines – United States Ambassador to the Philippines Sung Kim was all praises for Manila Mayor Isko on Friday, whom he calls a “rockstar” for his progressive policies.
During the meeting between the two, Kim said Moreno’s leadership style “bring new dynamism and energies to your position.”
Moreno recently grabbed headlines for his unique approach to governance, especially in clearing the city’s congested areas and markets like Carriedo, Quiapo, Divisoria, Recto, Blumentritt, and Juan Luna.
READ: Filthy, chaotic Divisoria would mean I’ve been bribed, says Isko Moreno
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He also earned acclaim for checking reports that the previous administration has allegedly left the city with a cash deficit of P4.3 billion.
READ: Manila has cash deficit of P4.3B, says COA
READ: Manila gov’t looking into Estrada admin’s P4.3B cash deficit
Aside from these, Kim also cited Moreno for his opinion on the government’s anti-illegal drug campaign. Previously, Moreno said that he was supporting the drug war but with certain reservations, like upholding human rights.
From Manila PIO
“We appreciate your approach. You’re dealing with it in a manner that is consistent with human rights and rule of law,” the ambassador explained.
READ: Moreno says he supports war on drugs but with respect for human rights
During the meeting, Moreno was with his chief of staff Cesar Chavez, while Kim was accompanied by Internal Political Chief of the Embassy Josh Morris.
Recently, Kim was also part of discussions about a potential reassignment in the region. The US Embassy in Manila, however, denied reports that Kim was on his way out, and will be replaced by US State Department Deputy Assistant Secretary for the Bureau of Conflict and Stabilization Operations Mina Chang.
U.S. President Donald Trump on Thursday said that he is eyeing to relocate Kim to Indonesia, without naming Kim’s successor. /muf/ac
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