Vico Sotto says he won't run in 2028, begins third term as Pasig mayor
'2028, hindi ako tatakbo. Ngayon pa lang sinasabi ko na sa inyo. Kaya malaya akong gawin kung anong tingin ko ang tama,' Sotto said during his inaugural address.
(I will not run in 2028. I'm telling you this now. That's why I'm free to do what I believe is right.)
He said his early announcement frees him from political pressure and allows him to fully focus on his mandate during his last term.
Now serving his third consecutive term as mayor — the maximum allowed under the Constitution — Sotto reiterated his commitment to continue pursuing policies and reforms he believes will benefit the city, regardless of political consequences.
He also extended an olive branch to his political rivals, saying he is open to cooperation for the city's progress.
'Hindi ninyo masasabi na may bahid ng politika. At 'yung hindi ko masabi noong campaign period, ngayon pwede ko na pong sabihin, sa lahat ng aming katunggali, we extend a hand of peace, we extend a hand of unity. Kung maaari, magtulungan tayo para sa ikagaganda ng ating lungsod,' he said.
(You can't say this is politically motivated. And what I couldn't say during the campaign period, I can say now: to all our opponents, we extend a hand of peace, we extend a hand of unity. If possible, let's work together for the good of our city.)
However, Sotto clarified that calls for unity do not mean ignoring past wrongdoings.
'Ngunit, kailangan may managot sa mga krimen na naganap,' he said.
(However, there must be accountability for the crimes that were committed.)
Sotto earlier said that he would continue to advance his good governance agenda
He first won as Pasig mayor in 2019. —Sherylin Untalan/AOL, GMA Integrated News
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