As certain as the sun will rise tomorrow, Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso will reclaim the mayoralty of Manila — this time with a margin of victory so overwhelming and unprecedented in the history of the nation’s capital.
That’s the consensus among many political analysts and Manileños themselves who all point to consistent survey results showing Isko way ahead of his main rivals, incumbent Mayor Honey Lacuna and Rep. Sam Verzosa.
Reputable survey firms like OCTA Research, SWS, and Laylo show Isko persistently on top, with voter preference ranging from 60% to more than 80%. OCTA’s latest poll, released April 29 — just two weeks ahead of election day — has the former mayor with a sizeable 63% voter preference.
Although a more recent “Boses ng Bayan” poll from RPMD Foundation gave Verzosa a slight lead of 43% against Isko’s 41%, many Manileños remain unconvinced by the numbers, expressing more trust in OCTA’s credibility.
Isko’s strong showing isn’t just about numbers — it’s about track record. His first term as mayor was widely regarded as transformative for a city long mired in decay and dysfunction. Manileños vividly recall how Moreno hit the ground running with clean-up efforts, reclaiming chaotic areas in Divisoria, Blumentrit and Carriedo almost overnight, instantly redefining what no-nonsense leadership ought to be.
But he didn’t stop at aesthetics and the so-called low-lying fruits. He upgraded healthcare facilities, pursued vertical housing projects for the homeless urban poor, and brought an ideal sense of order to City Hall and genuine responsiveness to the plight of desperate Manileños longing for meaningful governance.
For many, Isko was not the traditional politician who promised change — he truly delivered it.
While Mayor Honey Lacuna has also delivered on the many aspirations of Manileños, her leadership style has not matched the energy, depth, and scale of her predecessor. Despite efforts by many of her media supporters to amplify her accomplishments, the public still appears drawn to Isko’s results-driven legacy and street-level appeal.
That appeal is rooted in a deeply personal narrative. From basurero and pedicab driver to movie actor to politician starting from councilor to vice-mayor then mayor, Isko’s life story is one of struggle, grit, and determination to succeed. His ability to speak plainly, connect emotionally, and remain highly visible through social media has helped him retain public trust long after leaving office.
Even sharp criticisms from vloggers like Pebbles Talakera and many other detractors have failed to significantly tarnish Isko’s image. His sincerity and grassroots connection make him a hard target for character attacks. He enjoys broad appeal across socio-economic classes, something few politicians can claim.
Even some missteps that have raised eyebrows — like the presence of Vice President Sara Duterte in some of his campaign rallies — did not lead to mass exodus of Isko followers. But it cannot be denied that for some loyal and principled supporters, particularly those critical of the Dutertes and legacy of EJKs, her presence was jarring. Many felt it just wasn’t right to allow her — someone with no roots in Manila — to curse and insult local candidates with deep ties to the city.
Still, those episodes appear to be minor wrinkles in the path towards what many believe to be an inevitable victory for Yorme on Monday. Isko Moreno’s comeback rests not on nostalgia, but on lived experience —of determined, visible, honest-to-goodness leadership. That experience of having an effective and highly efficient local government is what drives Manileños to go all-out for Isko.
Indeed, many Manileños are very sure — as sure as tomorrow’s sunrise — of Isko’s triumphant return to City Hall.
