Isko Moreno backs Camille Villar for Senate in Manila campaign rally

Manila mayoral bet Isko Moreno endorses Camille Villar for senator.

MANILA, Philippines —  Former Manila Mayor Isko Moreno Domagoso gave senatorial candidate Camille Villar a major boost in her campaign, endorsing her candidacy during a spirited rally in Paco, Manila just days ahead of the May 12 elections.

Despite a light drizzle, supporters gathered in droves along Pedro Gil Street to show their enthusiasm for Moreno’s “Yorme’s Choice” slate, which features Villar as one of his preferred senatorial bets. Moreno’s local lineup also includes vice mayoral candidate Chi Atienza and 5th District congressional aspirant Rep. Amado Bagatsing, along with a full roster of city council candidates.

“Can we put her in your 12 senatorial votes? Our Camille Villar!” Moreno declared to cheers from the crowd, urging Manileños to include Villar among their 12 choices for senator.

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Villar, moved by the endorsement, expressed gratitude and pledged to advocate for causes close to the hearts of Manileños, including support for small businesses, affordable housing, and programs promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment.

`Better life’

She also pointed to her deep personal ties to Manila, sharing that her father, former Senate President Manny Villar, grew up in Moriones, Tondo, and once sold seafood in Divisoria. “I carry with me the lessons of hard work and perseverance from my father’s story, and I know what it means to strive for a better life,” she said.

Manila mayoral candidate endorses Camille Villar’s senatorial bid.

Isko Moreno and Camille Villar share a light moment.

Isko Moreno throws his support to Camille Villar.

The rally served as a reunion of sorts for two leaders with shared roots and values. Like Villar’s father, Moreno also hails from Tondo and rose from poverty to become one of Manila’s most recognizable public servants. During his term, Moreno earned praise for high-impact urban renewal projects and for prioritizing access to basic services.

Villar emphasized her alignment with the Domagoso-Atienza tandem’s platform, which centers on providing decent housing, accessible healthcare, quality education, and livelihood support for Manileños.

Now leading the mayoral race in Manila, Moreno is mounting a political comeback after stepping away from public office for three years. His endorsement of Villar is expected to bolster her standing among grassroots voters in the capital.