In a surprising twist that’s shaking both political camps, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. (PBBM) has officially met with former Manila Mayor Isko Moreno to discuss potential collaborations on infrastructure and social welfare projects in the capital city. The meeting, held at Malacañang Palace, was described by the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) as a step toward strengthening national and local government cooperation in implementing key “legacy projects.”

But not everyone is happy about it. In fact, the announcement has left many die-hard Duterte supporters – known as the DDS – fuming. To them, Isko Moreno is a “balimbing” — a political turncoat who has switched loyalties too many times to count. Once a vocal critic of the Duterte administration, Isko is now seen once again aligning himself with national power — this time, under PBBM.

Still, President Marcos’ camp insists the collaboration is purely developmental, not political. Among the major projects discussed are housing initiatives, bridge construction, transport terminals, and a visionary plan to transform the underused Intramuros Golf Course into a public forest park. For many, this proposal alone deserves praise. The idea is to turn an elite, underutilized green space into a public haven, accessible to all — similar to the now-thriving Esplanade area along the Pasig River.

As a commentator, I have to say — I’m all for that. Turning that historic golf course into a forest park is a brilliant move. Finally, something ordinary citizens can enjoy.

However, the political dimension of this meeting is impossible to ignore. It wasn’t just a courtesy visit — PBBM personally invited Isko to Malacañang. That means the President clearly sees him as an important local partner. And that’s where the tension begins.

Many still remember how Isko, during the pandemic, publicly criticized then-President Rodrigo Duterte and his allies for what he called a “plandemic” — accusing officials and businessmen of exploiting the crisis for personal gain. Back in October 2021, while serving as Manila mayor, Isko said bluntly: “The pandemic is God’s punishment for those who plundered and abused the country.”

Those remarks hit the Duterte camp hard. The DDS trolls immediately went into overdrive, spreading online campaigns labeling Isko as “Is-komunista” — a supposed communist sympathizer. Pro-Duterte bloggers, including Niño Barsaga and Mahor Hara, attacked him relentlessly, citing photos and old connections to twist public opinion.

At that time, Isko was practically an enemy of the Duterte base. President Duterte himself even mocked him by showing shirtless photos from Isko’s acting days, sarcastically asking, “Ganyan ba gusto niyo maging leader?”

But politics in the Philippines is a revolving door. Fast forward to 2025 — and here we are. The same Isko Moreno who once condemned the Duterte government is now shaking hands with PBBM, a president still viewed by many as a natural ally of the Duterte political machinery.

So the question everyone’s asking is: Why?

From a pragmatic standpoint, Isko knows that being close to the national government brings power and resources to Manila. Collaboration with Malacañang could mean billions in infrastructure funding, more social housing, and revitalization projects. From PBBM’s side, bringing Isko back into the fold could help expand influence in Metro Manila, a region still politically divided between pro-Duterte and pro-Marcos groups.

Of course, some supporters are quick to remind everyone that even if Isko has a “balimbing” reputation, his track record in cleaning up the capital can’t be denied. During his term, he managed to rehabilitate areas like Quiapo and Divisoria, relocating street vendors and improving urban order — something many believe has since deteriorated under current city leadership.

So yes, while many netizens see him as opportunistic, there’s no denying that Isko is effective when it comes to getting things done.

That’s why this collaboration with PBBM is such a mixed bag of reactions. Some Marcos supporters are cautiously optimistic — seeing it as a partnership that can genuinely improve Manila’s quality of life. Others, especially the hardline DDS loyalists, feel betrayed. After all, they still remember Isko’s harsh words against Duterte and the “plandemic” accusations.

But for President Marcos, it seems the decision is strategic — even symbolic. Inviting a former critic into Malacañang sends a message: his administration is willing to work with anyone who shares the goal of progress, regardless of past rivalries. It’s a political gamble, but one that aligns with PBBM’s more diplomatic, centrist image compared to the combative Duterte years.

In the end, perhaps this alliance between Marcos and Moreno isn’t about loyalty — it’s about legacy. If the projects succeed — especially the transformation of Intramuros Golf into a public park — it could redefine Manila’s image for the next generation.

As for the DDS, they may continue to rage online, calling Isko “fake” or “traitor,” but the truth is: politics always evolves. Today’s enemy can be tomorrow’s partner — especially if it means securing funding, influence, or simply a seat at the table.

For now, all eyes are on how this collaboration will unfold. Will it bring genuine development to Manila? Or will it be another round of political theatrics dressed up as public service?

One thing’s for sure: the capital is once again in the center of political drama — and as always, the Filipino people are watching closely, wondering who’s really serving them… and who’s just playing the game.