Isko Moreno speaks to some 100 farmers in a town hall meeting in Tarlac City. Photo courtesy of Isko Moreno Campaign Team
MANILA, Philippines — Islamic leaders and representatives from the Muslim business sector, transport groups and other volunteer groups have formally pledged their support to presidential aspirant Manila Mayor Isko Moreno.
Members of the coalition Pilipinas God First: United Bangsamoro Isko for President Movement took their oath before the standard bearer of Aksyon Demokratiko on Wednesday.
The coalition of Muslim business organizations include Metro Manila Traders Association; Greenhills Muslim Business Club Foundation, Inc. (GMBCF) and the Muslim Traders Associations in Greenhills in San Juan; Farmers’ Market in Cubao; Market Market in Taguig; Ever Gotesco, St. Francis Square, Metrowalk, Star Mall, Tutuban, 999 and 168 Malls.
“Other national candidates have tried to get our support but we decided to join Mayor Isko’s presidential campaign because of his genuine concern for the Muslim community in Manila,” said the group said in a statement.
The group cited Moreno for the construction of the Manila Islamic Cemetery — an exclusive burial ground for Manila Muslim residents which is the first of its kind in Metro Manila.
Moreno’s Aksyon Demokratiko also has a Muslim woman — Samira Gutoc — under its senatorial slate.
For his part, Moreno said it is his campaign platform to o give equal treatment and equal opportunity to all people regardless of ethnicity.
“A major part of my platform of government will focus on the immediate, inclusive and doable economic plans and programs that will benefit every Filipino regardless of social status,” Mayor Isko said in the statement.