Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso on Wednesday presented a comprehensive blueprint for the capital city’s recovery, highlighting efforts to cut debt, expand housing, and upgrade healthcare.

Domagoso said Manila has begun emerging from one of the most difficult financial periods in its history while continuing to deliver public services and infrastructure projects.

“We’re no longer in the ICU. Financially speaking, we’re now in the recovery room,” Domagoso said, adding that the city is on track toward achieving a balanced budget.

The mayor revealed that while his administration initially inherited P10.2 billion in unpaid commercial obligations, a financial review later showed the city’s total outstanding liabilities had actually reached approximately P14.6 billion.

He added that the debt included unpaid accounts with power distributor Meralco, Manila Water, contractors, suppliers, and other service providers.

Domagoso said the city has already settled about P7.8 billion of the inherited obligations within a year, while continuing to pay its regular loan amortizations with the Land Bank of the Philippines and the Development Bank of the Philippines.

He described the accomplishment as proof that fiscal discipline and responsible governance can coexist with uninterrupted delivery of public services.

Among the administration’s latest infrastructure projects, Domagoso announced the reopening of the newly renovated emergency room at Ospital ng Maynila.

The upgraded department is expected to improve patient care, reduce waiting times, and provide faster medical attention for residents.

He said improving healthcare remains a top priority, particularly for low-income residents who depend on public hospitals.