Manila City Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso announced Monday the release of P648.84 million in cash assistance, benefits, and incentives covering city employees, health workers, and students ahead of the Christmas season.

Speaking during the flag-raising ceremony at Manila City Hall, Domagoso detailed the massive disbursement, which he attributed to the support of the city’s taxpayers and businesses.

“This P648 million, where did it come from? I just want to briefly explain it to you: from the taxpayers,” Domagoso said. He urged city personnel to treat taxpayers with respect.

“Our lives depend on their trust to give their hard-earned money to pay their obligation to the City Government of Manila,” he added.

The city is releasing P302.18 million for permanent city employees, co-terminous employees, and elected officials. This total covers retroactive salary adjustments under the second tranche of the Salary Standardization Law, alongside medical, productivity, and service recognition incentives.

Eligible permanent personnel are set to receive three specific benefits — a P7,000 Medical Allowance, a P5,000 Productivity Enhancement Incentive and a P10,000 Service Recognition Incentive.

These releases are scheduled between 15 and 23 December.