Vico Sotto rules out 2028 run

Metro Manila, Philippines - Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto has ruled out running for any national position in the 2028 elections.

Sotto made the statement on Monday, June 30, during the turnover ceremony for the newly-elected officials of Pasig City, who will serve from 2025 to 2028.

"2028, hindi ako tatakbo. Ngayon pa lang sinasabi ko na sa inyo. Kaya malaya akong gawin kung ano ang tingin kong tama," Sotto said.

[Translation: I will not run in 2028. I'm telling you this as early as now. That’s why I am free to do what I believe is right.]

The mayor, who is in his final term, emphasized his commitment to serve without political ambitions influencing his decisions.

In the same event, Sotto also offered a message of unity while stressing the importance of accountability:

"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."

[Translation: To all our opponents, we extend a hand of peace and unity—but there must still be accountability for crimes that were committed.]

In a previous interview with NewsWatch Plus, Sotto credited his team and his constituents for enabling systemic reforms in the city. When asked if his leadership style could be implemented nationwide, he said change is not a one-man job.

“I cannot implement change alone—it requires the support of the people,” he said.

Sotto’s local party, Giting ng Pasig, won decisively in the 2025 elections, securing a strong third and final term and a mandate to continue its reform-oriented agenda.