Time Magazine Honors Vico Sotto
VICO SOTTO – The Pasig City mayor has received international recognition after being named by Time Magazine as one of the 100 most influential rising stars in the world.
Included in the Leader category, Vico was praised for his honesty, openness, and courage in standing up against corruption. Nobel Peace Prize winner and journalist Maria Ressa wrote about Vico, highlighting his efforts to fight corruption in a system long dominated by political dynasties and unfair practices.
Ressa shared that, at just 36 years old, Vico ended a 27-year political dynasty in Pasig City—not by relying on money or political machinery, but by promoting honesty and transparency. She noted his initiatives such as the 24/7 complaints hotline, livestreamed bidding for projects, and reduced project costs by eliminating illegal kickbacks. For Ressa, these reforms reflect a new kind of leadership that inspires hope and confidence among ordinary people.
She also praised his smart and compassionate leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic, which helped Pasig City become one of the better-prepared cities in the Philippines. Vico’s repeated election victories, Ressa explained, prove that clean and ethical leadership can succeed in a political system often marred by corruption.
Meanwhile, Filipino-Canadian actor Manny Jacinto was recognized in the Artist category for his talent and humility in the entertainment industry. Emmy-winning writer and producer Alan Yang described Jacinto as proof that skill and kindness can go hand in hand. Known for his roles in film and television, Jacinto has become an inspiration by showing that one can achieve success while remaining humble and compassionate.
Together, the recognition of Vico Sotto and Manny Jacinto highlights how Filipinos are making their mark on the global stage—not only in government and public service, but also in arts and culture.