What’s the plan of Manila mayoral bets for senior citizens?

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Manila’s mayoral candidates are promising better services to over 118,000 senior citizens in the city. But who among them can truly fulfill that promise?

Manila, Philippines – In their campaigns, Manila’s mayoral candidates often highlight programs for senior citizens, a key voting bloc with significant influence on families and communities.

According to a 2015 census, there are 118,222 senior citizens living in the city of Manila.

Here’s a guide to what the candidates are promising if they are elected mayor.

Honey Lacuna

ELDERLY. Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna greets an elderly during her door-to-door campaign in Sampaloc on March 28, 2025.

If reelected, Mayor Honey Lacuna plans to give birthday cash gifts instead of cakes.

On October 24, 2024, a few weeks after the filing of certificates of candidacy, Lacuna signed an ordinance that doubled the monthly allowance of senior citizens, raising it from P500 to P1,000.

She also promises to continue the employment program of the city hall for senior citizens.

Isko Moreno

YORME. Former Manila mayor Isko Moreno along with running mate Chi Atienza woe the crowd during a motorcade, as they kick-off their campaign in Tondo, on March 28, 2025.

Former mayor Isko Moreno, who is eyeing a comeback in city hall, vows to bring back birthday cakes, sacks of rice, and adult milks for senior citizens.

During Moreno’s term in 2019, he started giving out P500 cash aid to senior citizens, single parents, students, and persons with disabilities. This ordinance was signed less than a month after Moreno took office.

Samuel Verzosa Jr.

ELDERLY. Manila mayoral bet Sam Verzosa hugs an elderly lady.

Tutok-to-win Party-list Representative Sam Verzosa promises a P2,000 monthly allowance. He also wants to build a Senior Citizens’ Hospital.

Michael Say

Manila mayoral bet Michael Say attends Rappler’s election forum in Escolta, on January 25.

Michael Say also aims to provide cash aid to the elderly, with amounts varying based on their circumstances and needs:

• P3,000 for those in greatest need
• P2,000 for those less privileged
• P1,000 for the able-bodied and belong to the upper or middle class

This cash aid will be distributed using a “Manilazen” card which also functions as an ATM card, similar to Makati.

The 65-year-old aspiring Manila mayor also plans to establish a Bahay Kanlungan to accommodate senior citizens and individuals with disabilities. This facility will also serve as a temporary shelter for the homeless and jobless.

Rappler reached out to other mayoral candidates about their plans for senior citizens, but they have yet to respond as of writing. This story will be updated once they provide their answers.

Other candidates who wish to share their platforms can also reach out to Patrick Cruz at patrick.cruz@rappler.com. – Rappler.com