Isko Moreno mania: Third envoy meets ‘rockstar’ Manila mayor

Ambassador of the Republic of Panama to the Philippines Rolando Guevara Alvarado pays courtesy call on Manila Mayor Isko Moreno on Friday (July 19, 2019). Photo by Christia Marie Ramos/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines — Manila Mayor Isko Moreno said the successive meetings he has had with different envoys were a “good sign” for the city.

“I’m happy that the members of the diplomatic corps and the consular’s office…keep coming back or visiting Manila. We’re honored, of course,” Moreno told reporters after he met with Ambassador of the Republic of Panama to the Philippines Rolando Guevara Alvarado on Friday.

Alvarado is the third ambassador Moreno formally met since he assumed office on July 1.

The Manila mayor met with United States Ambassador to the Philippines Sung Kim last July 12.

READ: US envoy Sung Kim all praises for ‘rockstar’ Isko Moreno

Meanwhile, British Ambassador to the Philippines Daniel Pruce paid a courtesy call on Moreno on Wednesday (July 17).

“It’s a good sign that they’re hopeful, hopeful about the city government, where the city’s going in the next,” Moreno added.

Cultural exchange

According to Moreno, the Panama envoy offered a cultural exchange with Manila.

“Cultural exchange, gusto niyang (Alvarado) i-engage ang City Hall. Second, yung kinuwento niya satin kung gaano karami…about 120 seamen are applying everyday,” he said.

WATCH: Moreno talks with Panama Ambassador | @inquirerdotnet pic.twitter.com/zmq6qtRdpV

— Christia Ramos (@christiaramos_) July 19, 2019

“We’re happy because most of these people are from Manila. So, its job generating situation,” he added.

During the meeting, Alvarado also wished “all the best for your (Moreno) good endeavor” in the city.

“People are aware of the job you are doing, that’s something important to take into consideration. I know you have a more chance ahead, you have the energy and the team,” the diplomat said.

Fourth envoy

Moreno, likewise, expressed joy over his meetings with the different top envoys almost three weeks into his term.

He said he would be meeting with the Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Koji Haneda on Monday next week.

“Meron pang isa. Lunes, Japan. Nakakatuwa nga eh. Alam mo sa totoo lang nakakatuwa,” Moreno said.

“Were happy, it’s not about our pride, it’s the pride of the city of Manila and the people of Manila. It’s not for me. At least maganda yung outlook nila sa Manila,” he added./ac