Vote-Buying Case Filed Against Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto
VICO SOTTO – The Pasig City mayor is currently facing a vote-buying complaint filed with the Commission on Elections (COMELEC).
The case, citing a violation of Section 68 of the Omnibus Election Code, was filed by Victor Barral, a former city hall employee and a member of Citizens Crime Watch. Barral alleged that on May 7, 2025—just days before the elections—Mayor Sotto distributed scholarship allowances to students in Pasig, supposedly in violation of election campaign rules.
During a press conference, Barral said he filed the complaint in good faith as a responsible citizen. According to COMELEC guidelines, the distribution of government aid is prohibited within 10 days before the elections, except for specific exemptions such as medical or burial assistance. Atty. Ferdinand Topacio, Barral’s legal counsel and national chairman of Citizens Crime Watch, emphasized that their organization is nonpartisan and that this is his first involvement in any election-related case. He argued that the distribution of scholarship funds does not qualify as an exemption from the election ban.
However, Atty. Topacio clarified that they are not claiming Mayor Sotto is guilty, and that it is up to the COMELEC to investigate and make a decision.
In response, Mayor Vico Sotto addressed the issue calmly, even with a touch of humor, through a social media post. He shared a playful song about recurring press conferences and controversies, stressing that the scholarship allowance distribution had received an official exemption from the COMELEC on March 24. He explained that the scholarship program is part of Pasig’s regular educational initiatives and should not be considered election-related aid.
Sotto also noted that since 2019, the city had removed all politically motivated conditions attached to the scholarship program. Scholars are no longer required to attend political events, and the program is not associated with any politician’s name. He praised the education department staff for maintaining a nonpartisan approach and assured Pasigueños that their focus remains on genuine public service.
With only two days left before the elections, Sotto ended his message with encouragement and confidence that the truth will ultimately prevail.