MANILA — Former Manila Mayor Isko Moreno's anticipated return to city hall hit a brief delay on Tuesday as the Board of Canvassers postponed his official proclamation due to incomplete manual ballot transmissions.

Moreno, who emerged as the fron-runner in Manila’s mayoral race, garnered a commanding lead over incumbent Mayor Honey Lacuna and businessman-congressman Sam Verzosa.

Based on the partial and unofficial tally from the Commission on Elections (Comelec), Moreno received 509,693 votes, enjoying a wide margin over Lacuna’s 184,030 votes, with 96.47 percent of election returns already counted.

The canvassing at the Manila Session Hall was halted after the board completed receiving electronically transmitted results but was still awaiting manual transmissions from several precincts.

Atty. Jerico Jimenez, chairman of the Manila City Board of Canvassers, announced the recess and said the canvassing would resume at 2 p.m.

Moreno, accompanied by his running-mate Chi Atienza, made an appearance at the canvassing venue and expressed understanding over the delay.

“I think any candidate running in the public office is excited to proclaim. And especially if it is highly improbable,” Moreno said.

“But then again, following rules and instructions, and being understanding of the situation—the physical, emotional, and psychological challenge to our BEIs, the teachers, and all individuals who participated in this election—we'll give them understanding,” he added.

Despite the delay, Moreno thanked Manila voters for their support.

“For everyone in the city of Manila, Chichi and I were very happy and grateful. Nagulat kami na overwhelming ‘yung lumabas na resulta,” he said.

Verzosa conceded his election defeat in a social media post, saying he accepts the decision of the people.

Moreno emphasized the need for unity and reconciliation following the divisive election season.

“Because at the end of the day, taga-Maynila sila, diba? Maging mamamayan ko rin sila. Sa Maynila, pantay-pantay,” he said.

“We're willing to serve them. So ang panawagan ko sa mamamayan, magbati-bati na po tayo. Huwag na po tayo maghiwa-hiwalay. At the end of the day, tayo-tayo rin ang magkikita sa finals.”

Meanwhile, Moreno’s son, Joaquin Domagoso, topped the councilor race in the first district of Manila.

“Bata pa naman po talaga ako, inaamin ko po ‘yun… But don't worry po, sa paglilingkod, wala yun sa edad. It’s your heart and your passion to strive to do better for the people,” the younger Domagoso said.

Moreno’s official proclamation is now expected to take place on Tuesday afternoon, once all remaining manual transmissions are accounted for.

Filipinos worldwide can stay updated on election-related news and results via the “Halalan” page on ABS-CBN.com.