Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso told parole and probation officers Friday that his personal journey from garbage collector to city mayor demonstrates that second chances work.

During the 1st PPA-NCR Criminal Justice Stakeholders’ Conference held for the Parole and Probation Administration’s 50th founding anniversary, Domagoso reflected on growing up in Tondo surrounded by people who took different paths in life.

“I was surrounded by resourceful individuals who liked to hang out on the street corner,” Domagoso said in Tagalog. “We shared the same environment, I just took a different path.”

Linking his journey as a former garbage collector and actor to the agency’s work, Domagoso stressed that genuine justice extends beyond punishment.

“When we talk about justice, often the first thing people think of is punishment,” Domagoso said. “But true justice is not just about punishment, it is also about giving a person the chance to change.”

He added that parole offers a second chance, noting that “a garbage collector can become mayor.”

Domagoso also remarked that a sitting senator is proof of the parole system’s impact, asking, “Who are we to judge?”

Referring to a recent crime in Manila, Domagoso said his familiarity with the streets helped authorities apprehend a primary suspect, leading three others to surrender shortly after. He cited the incident as an example of balancing community safety with a belief in rehabilitation.

“Someone who genuinely wants to change is a valuable investment for a better and more peaceful society,” Domagoso said.