MANILA – Fresh from securing a landslide victory in his final mayoral term, Pasig City’s Mayor Victor Ma. Regis “Vico” Sotto has categorically ruled out a bid for higher office in the 2028 national elections, saying his priority remains on completing his local mandate without distraction.
“Sa 2028 hindi ako tatakbo. Ngayon pa lang sinasabi ko na sa inyo. Kaya malaya akong gawin kung ano ang tingin kong tama,” Sotto declared during his oath-taking ceremony on Monday morning.
The firm statement quells growing public speculation and grassroots clamor for the 35-year-old mayor to seek national office, positioning him as a potential presidential or senatorial contender in the next elections.
Sotto’s reelection was overwhelming. He clinched a third and final term by defeating opponent Sara Discaya with 351,392 votes against her 29,591, based on official Commission on Elections (Comelec) figures. His political coalition swept the rest of the local races, with his running mates for vice mayor and district representative, along with all 12 city council candidates, securing victories.
While extending an olive branch to his opponents, Sotto also made it clear that unity must not come at the cost of justice.
“Sa lahat ng aming katunggali, we extend a hand of peace, we extend a hand of unity ngunit kailangan may managot sa mga krimen na naganap,” he added.
Now on his final term, Sotto’s declaration underscores a focus on legacy-building through unrestrained governance, unencumbered by political calculations for higher office./PN
