Official Business
ISKO MORENO Mayor of Manila
In Manila, Mayor Isko Moreno implemented his Code Red COVID-19 action plan: Contain and Delay. A 227.5 million-peso budget was set aside for food assistance, while a 12.9 million-peso budget was used to purchase medical supplies. Hotels and motels in the city provided a number of rooms for frontliners to use free of charge. The city has also benefitted greatly from the services and knowledge of its vice-mayor, Honey Lacuna, who is a doctor. Live updates are given to the constituents on a regular basis via the mayor’s social media channels.
FRANCIS ZAMORA Mayor of San Juan
Mayor Francis Zamora of San Juan found himself in charge of a city with the second highest number of cases— and figures are continuing to rise—per capita. Aside from aggressive disinfecting practices, strict observance of the quarantine, and fasttracked contact tracing, Zamora also mobilised relief goods distribution for his constituents and provided free transport to frontliners. His office helped facilitate the opening of a COVID-19 ward at the San Juan Medical Center. Through the support of Xavier School, Zamora was also able to turn a new and unused building within the San Juan Science High School into a much-needed 100-bed overflow isolation facility.
VICO SOTTO Mayor of Pasig City
Vico Sotto was thrust into the political limelight when his victory put an end to the political stronghold that had been governing Pasig City for nearly three decades. He calmly rose to the occasion, proving himself decisive, efficient, and ingenious—particularly in this time of crisis. Mobile kitchens were set up. To decongest crowds in marketplaces, a roving market was rolled out. To address issues caused by the closure of mass public transport, electric buses, bikes, and e-scooters were sourced out for rent, specifically to ferry frontliners to their destinations. Much raved about were the drones he purchased for disinfecting purposes.
ABBY BINAY Mayor of Makati
Mayor Abby Binay of Makati turned to tech-driven initiatives to assist her constituents. The Makatizen App, which was specially developed to help users keep abreast of city-related news, offered access to swift responses from authorities for COVID-19 concerns. Assistance has also been extended to those whose livelihoods are put on hold. Jeepney, tricycle, and pedicab drivers each received two thousand pesos worth of cash assistance. Eighty-two thousand food packs were dis-tributed to students. In addition, senior citizens received essential medication via door-todoor delivery.