Vico: Don’t allow corruption back in city hall

MANILA, Philippines — As he seeks another term, Pasig Mayor Vico Sotto reminded voters yesterday not to allow corruption to return to city hall.

Saying they have gone a long way, Sotto stressed the need to continue good governance in Pasig, which has resulted in positive development for the city and its constituents.

“It is possible to lead faithfully, possible to govern without kickbacks from contractors,” he said in Filipino during a speech at the Pasig Mega Market.

“It is possible to run a local government without corruption. This is what we are fighting for,” he added.

Sotto kicked off his campaign with his slate, which includes Rep. Roman Romulo and vice mayoralty candidate Robert “Dodot” Jaworski. He was accompanied by his parents, actors Vic Sotto and Connie Reyes.

The mayor recalled how he once shunned a contractor who offered earnings for him of up to 30 percent if he would approve a government project worth P100 million.

Sotto said he rejected the offer outright as well as overtures from other people who wanted to take advantage of his post.

During his first term, Sotto said they were able to curb corruption at city hall, adding that everyone now gets a fair share of the local programs regardless of political leanings.

Sotto’s opponent, Vice Mayor Iyo Caruncho Bernardo, opted for a house-to-house campaign in Barangay Kapasigan.

Bernardo vowed to construct another hospital so that residents will no longer have to crowd at the Pasig City General Hospital.

He also promised senior citizens a regular supply of maintenance medicines.

In Marikina, Mayor Marcelino Teodoro kicked off his campaign at the Agora Complex in Barangay Sto. Niño.

His opponent, District 1 Rep. Bayani Fernando, opted for a house-to-house campaign starting in Barangay Calumpang.

Fernando later went to Barangays Sta. Elena and Marikina Heights.

Makati Mayor Abigail Binay, meanwhile, was set to hold a proclamation rally at the city hall quadrangle at around 6 p.m. yesterday.

Taguig Rep. Lani Cayetano, who is seeking a fresh term as city mayor, will have her proclamation rally at the Lakeshore along C6 Road at around 7:50 p.m.