Former Manila mayor Isko Moreno endorses Camille Villar’s Senate bid

Former Manila mayor Isko Moreno Domagoso officially endorsed senatorial candidate Camille Villar during a well-attended campaign rally in Paco, Manila, energizing local supporters just days before the May 12 national elections.

Held along Pedro Gil Street, the rally featured Moreno’s full local ticket dubbed “Yorme’s Choice,” which includes vice mayoral candidate Chi Atienza, 5th District congressional aspirant Rep. Amado Bagatsing, and a complete slate of city council hopefuls.

Moreno, addressing the crowd, urged Manileños to include Villar in their list of 12 senators, praising her for her commitment and connection to the city.

“Can we include her in the twelve? Our senator, Camille Villar!” Moreno declared to loud cheers from attendees.

In response, Villar expressed gratitude for the endorsement and committed to championing key issues that matter to Manila residents — including livelihood support for small businesses, affordable housing, healthcare access, and women’s and gender rights.

She shared her family’s roots in the city, recalling how her father, former Senate President Manny Villar, was born and raised in Moriones, Tondo and once sold seafood in Divisoria — a humble background that she says shaped her values and empathy for working-class Filipinos.

Isko Moreno, who also came from a modest upbringing in Tondo, gained prominence for his transformative leadership as Manila mayor, with a focus on urban renewal and public service delivery. Now leading in the local mayoral race, Moreno is seeking a return to City Hall after a three-year political break.

Villar said she shares the vision of Moreno and his team — ensuring that every Manileño has access to decent housing, quality education, reliable healthcare, and sustainable livelihood.

The endorsement is seen as a major boost for Villar’s campaign in the capital, with Moreno’s grassroots influence and track record likely to sway a significant segment of Manila’s electorate.