Commitment to Institutionalization of Reforms
Incumbent Mayor Vico Sotto, recently declared the winner of the Pasig City mayoral race for Eleksyon 2025, emphasized his goal to ensure the institutionalization of reforms during his final term. He stressed the importance of embedding changes like government transparency and public participation mechanisms so they endure beyond any single mayor’s tenure. “Kailangan na makasiguro na ‘yung mga pagbabago, ‘yung mga reporma, gaya ng pagiging bukas ng pamahalaan, ‘yung mga mekanismo para sa pakikilahok ng taong bayan, ay ma-institutionalize para maging pangmatagalan siya, hindi ‘yung dahil lang sa isang mayor,” Sotto said.
The mayor pointed out that the next three years should focus on making reforms permanent, specifically procurement reform. “Ang nakikita kong pinaka-importante itong darating na tatlong taon at sa hinaharap pa, lalo na para sa amin dito sa Pasig, number one, institutionalization of reforms. Siguraduhin na magiging hindi nakasentro sa akin, kundi pang matagalan yung mga pagbabago gaya ng procurement reform. Kailangan maipagpatuloy yan,” he added.
Focus on Healthcare, Education, and Leadership Development
Aside from reform institutionalization, healthcare and education will be key areas of focus for the mayor’s last term. He also highlighted the need to cultivate new and younger leaders to carry on the progress made in Pasig.
“Hindi puwedeng isang magaling na leader, hindi puwedeng dalawang magaling na leader lamang. Kailangan mabigyan ng pagkakataon ‘yung mga next generation of leaders. At ‘yan ang pag-asa ng Pilipinas,” Sotto said, stressing that real change depends on more than just a few personalities. “Kung gusto natin ng tunay na pagbabago sa ating bayan, hindi puwede rin nakatingin tayo sa personalidad. Kailangan marami. ‘Yung susunod na henerasyon po talaga ang magiging susi rito.”
Progress on New City Hall Construction
Regarding infrastructure, the construction of the new Pasig City Hall remains on schedule. The groundbreaking ceremony is expected to take place in July, signaling steady progress for the city’s development plans.
Decision Against Higher Government Position
Despite recurring questions about his political future, the mayor confirmed he will not pursue a higher government post. Instead, he intends to devote his final term to advancing his programs in Pasig.
“Itong nakaraang mga araw, talagang paulit-ulit ‘yan tinatanong sa akin. Wala naman akong bagong sagot,” he said, reaffirming his commitment to his current role.
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