Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto Faces Second Graft Complaint — What’s Really Going On?

Pasig City, Philippines –
In a surprising turn of events that has left both supporters and critics stunned, Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto is now facing a second graft complaint, raising questions about what many consider one of the Philippines’ most promising young leaders.

The complaint was reportedly filed before the Office of the Ombudsman, alleging irregularities in the procurement of goods and services during Sotto’s term. Though the specific details remain undisclosed to the public, early sources suggest that the new case is unrelated to the first complaint and may involve separate transactions.

This development comes just months after Mayor Sotto was cleared of a previous complaint that stemmed from his administration’s early pandemic response. That case, largely seen by the public as politically motivated, was dismissed for lack of merit — and sparked an outpouring of support for the young mayor.

Public Reaction: Surprise, Support, and Suspicion

News of a second complaint quickly spread on social media, with hashtags like #StandWithVico, #GraftOrGame, and #VicoUnderFire trending within hours. While many are urging due process, a significant portion of netizens view the new case with skepticism.

“Two graft complaints in less than two years? Someone’s clearly trying to bring him down,” tweeted one supporter.
“If there’s evidence, then let it go through the legal system — but we smell politics,” wrote another.

Vico Sotto, known for his clean governance platform, transparency initiatives, and youth-driven policies, has become a symbol of “new politics” in the country. His calm and factual communication style has gained him a massive following — making him both an admired and potentially threatening figure in a landscape still dominated by traditional power blocs.

Mayor Vico Responds

In a brief statement released via his official Facebook page, Mayor Sotto said:

“We welcome any investigation. My conscience is clear, and our records will speak for themselves. The public deserves honest leaders — and we will never back down from that promise.”

He added that his administration would fully cooperate with the Ombudsman and that the city’s day-to-day operations would continue as normal.

Analysts Weigh In: Legal Case or Political Targeting?

Legal and political experts are divided on what this second complaint really means. While some say it’s a sign of cracks in even the most admired officials’ records, others suggest it’s part of a coordinated effort to discredit rising reformists in Philippine politics.

“We must not dismiss any legal complaint,” said Atty. Gerald Cruz, a government ethics professor. “But the timing and frequency do raise legitimate concerns about whether this is politically motivated harassment.”

As the Ombudsman begins its review, the case will likely become a litmus test for transparency and fairness in the country’s anti-corruption mechanisms. Whether it leads to formal charges or another dismissal, Mayor Vico Sotto’s leadership and integrity are once again being put to the test.