Arnold Clavio to Vico Sotto: “Huwag kang magtago sa mga pasaring”
ARNOLD CLAVIO – The veteran journalist responded strongly to Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto’s remarks about reporters allegedly being paid for interviews.
The issue started when Mayor Sotto posted on Facebook, hinting that some members of the media received money for interviews, and included screenshots showing the Discaya couple’s interviews with broadcast journalists Julius Babao and Korina Sanchez. Although he did not name them directly, the post implied their involvement, which quickly spread online.
In his Instagram post on Friday, August 22, Clavio challenged the mayor to present solid evidence if his allegations were true. He stressed that if Sotto truly believed Babao and Sanchez accepted payment from the Discayas for interviews, he should reveal proof instead of relying on hints and insinuations. According to Clavio, he did not expect such irresponsible statements from the young mayor.
Clavio further explained that journalism relies heavily on verifying facts before stories are aired, and that spreading unverified claims damages not only individual reporters but the credibility of the entire media industry. He reminded Sotto that news reports go through a strict process before reaching the public.
He also emphasized that this matter is not just about defending Babao and Sanchez, but about protecting the credibility of the entire profession. Clavio noted that mainstream media already faces challenges, especially with social media often portraying traditional news outlets as untrustworthy, which many people tend to believe.
Clavio urged Mayor Sotto not to take advantage of the situation for political interests. While both of them may share the same goal of pursuing clean governance, he warned the mayor against creating the perception that only he represents integrity and honesty.
“May trabaho ka. May trabaho rin kami. Respeto. Walang Personalan,” Clavio concluded.
The controversy has drawn mixed reactions online, with many calling for clarity. Both Julius Babao and Korina Sanchez have already denied the allegations. For Clavio, the issue goes beyond personalities—it is about safeguarding journalism’s role as a reliable source of information in a democracy.
Related Post: Vico Sotto Calls Out Journalists Over Discaya Interviews