Vico Sotto Declares He Won’t Run in 2028, Begins Final Term as Pasig Mayor

Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto officially began his third and final term on Monday with a bold announcement: he will not seek any elective post in the 2028 elections.

“2028, hindi ako tatakbo. Ngayon pa lang sinasabi ko na sa inyo,” Sotto said during his inaugural address. “Kaya malaya akong gawin kung anong tingin ko ang tama.”(“I will not run in 2028. I’m telling you this now. That’s why I’m free to do what I believe is right.”)

Sotto emphasized that by declaring his exit from politics early, he frees himself from political calculations and can focus solely on serving Pasig during his final term. This term marks the end of his eligibility under the Constitution’s three-term limit for local officials.

Reaffirming his commitment to meaningful reforms, Sotto vowed to continue pushing for policies that prioritize the city’s development and good governance, regardless of political risk.

He also reached out to his past political rivals, urging unity and collaboration:
“Sa lahat ng aming katunggali, we extend a hand of peace, we extend a hand of unity. Kung maaari, magtulungan tayo para sa ikagaganda ng ating lungsod,” he said.
(“To all our opponents, we extend a hand of peace, a hand of unity. If possible, let’s work together for the good of our city.”)

However, he was firm in stating that unity should not come at the cost of justice.
“Ngunit, kailangan may managot sa mga krimen na naganap.”
(“However, there must be accountability for the crimes that were committed.”)

Sotto, who first won the mayoralty in 2019 by unseating a political dynasty, has since become a national figure known for transparency, innovation, and youth-driven governance.

As he enters his last term, the mayor said his focus will remain on institutionalizing reforms and encouraging new leadership to rise — echoing his long-standing advocacy for participatory and principled governance.