Vico Sotto, Manny Jacinto among TIME100’s most influential rising stars

Metro Manila, Philippines - Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto and Filipino-Canadian actor Manny Jacinto have been included in the Time Magazine’s list of 100 Most Influential Rising Stars for 2025.

The American news magazine included Sotto in its list of rising leaders for his governance in Pasig City, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. It also recognized his efforts to fight corruption and end the Eusebio family's 27-year political dynasty in the city.

“His courageous approach—data-driven, direct, and empathetic—is a master class in modern, ethical leadership. It’s a testament to the power of the individual to ignite a movement for change,” read the bionote written by Nobel Peace Prize journalist and Rappler CEO Maria Ressa.

Sotto is currently in his third and final term as mayor of Pasig City, a position he first assumed in 2019. Before becoming mayor, he served as a city councilor from 2016 to 2019.

Meanwhile, Jacinto made it to the list for the artists category.

The Hollywood actor is known for his roles as Jason Mendoza in the comedy series “The Good Place” and as Eric Reyes in the comedy film “Freaky Friday.”

“He has incredible range as an actor—But more importantly, Manny is fundamentally, elementally, constitutionally good,” according to the bionote.

Launched in 2019, the TIME100 Next is an annual list published by Time Magazine that provides a “snapshot” of 100 rising stars and emerging leaders.

The magazine’s criteria for selection include influence, leadership, and innovation that contribute to change across sectors such as art, science, politics, and culture.

NewsWatch Plus intern Angeline Mae Villanueva contributed to this report.