Korina Sanchez Camp Responds to Paid Interview Allegations
MANILA — The camp of Korina Sanchez, a prominent news anchor, has firmly addressed recent allegations made by Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto regarding paid interviews involving political figures. The controversy centers on claims that some veteran journalists conduct interviews in exchange for large sums of money, stirring public debate.
Korina Sanchez’s team swiftly responded after Mayor Sotto shared a post featuring Sanchez and broadcaster Julius Babao alongside the Discaya couple, Curlee and Sarah. The mayor’s message suggested that certain guests offered up to P10 million to secure interviews. This prompted Sanchez’s camp to clarify their position on the matter.
Commitment to Integrity in Storytelling
Both “Korina Interviews” and “Rated Korina,” Sanchez’s flagship programs, emphasize their dedication to high journalistic standards. According to official statements, their choice of subjects is driven by genuine public interest rather than financial incentives.
“Our host, Ms. Korina Sanchez Roxas, has her esteemed place in the industry for very sturdy reasons. Firstly, we choose subjects and topics for our shows, because there is public interest, the topic is talked about,” the statement explained.
Moreover, the programs avoid sensationalism. “We don’t do ‘Hit’ pieces, so no bashing, criticizing, or slandering other personalities or businesses. Third, and by the same token, we don’t do ‘Puff’ or ‘vanity’ pieces; subjects simply tell their life story,” it added, highlighting their balanced approach.
Longstanding Relationships with Public Figures
Sources noted that Sanchez’s shows have featured numerous personalities over the years, including members of Mayor Sotto’s own family. These include Senator Tito Sotto, Quezon City Vice Mayor Gian Sotto, MTRCB Chair Lala Sotto, and Vice Mayor Dodot Jaworski. Such longstanding relationships underscore the programs’ focus on public interest rather than monetary gain.
In the case of the Discaya couple, the statement pointed out their sudden rise in public attention as justification for the interview. “Their rags-to-riches life story is their story to tell. It was aired no more, no less. Should there have been anything untrue about what they claimed, it was and is up to the accuser to point this out,” community members said.
Interview Requests and Declinations
Officials reported that Sanchez’s team had reached out multiple times to Mayor Sotto since he assumed office. They even informed his mother, veteran actress Coney Reyes, about their intention to interview the mayor for a feature on the Discayas. However, Sotto consistently declined these invitations.
Furthermore, the interview with the Discayas was conducted and aired well before the election campaign period. The content remains the property of the network, and the interview cannot be used by the Discayas for other purposes. All interviews of political candidates were also removed from official platforms during the campaign period, ensuring compliance with election rules.
Denial of P10 Million Interview Fee
Sanchez’s camp strongly denied the claim of a P10 million payment for the interview. “There is no such thing as a P10 million placement for an interview. This is simply not true,” the statement emphasized.
They also warned that malicious social media insinuations damaging the reputation of their shows or host could constitute cyber libel. “While we fully respect freedom of speech and opinion and the platforms in which these are aired and posted, there is such a thing as thoughtful restraint, which benefits truth and fairness,” the statement concluded.
Context of Mayor Vico Sotto’s Post
Before the official response, a now-deleted statement from Sanchez’s camp circulated online. It noted that Sanchez only learned about the interview with Mayor Sotto’s opponent on the day it was aired and that she did not personally contact the Discayas.
The earlier statement also clarified that payments for advertisements related to businesses, personalities, or politicians go directly to the network with official receipts issued. This is standard practice and distinct from editorial content.
Mayor Sotto’s viral post on Facebook has amassed over 140,000 reactions. He acknowledged that while the interview was not illegal, broadcasters should reflect on their ethical responsibilities.
“They can hide in gray areas: ‘this is not journalism… more of a lifestyle… it needs a sponsor…’ but let’s not fool ourselves. They rose to national prominence as broadcast journalists/news personalities; they [should] invest in their reputation and credibility… and in this path, it is also the reputation and credibility that they lend to the corrupt in exchange for [money],” he wrote.
The mayor also stressed that corruption is systemic and extends beyond government. “But we can slowly but surely break this cycle if more and more of us consistently do our part, wherever we are and whatever our position may be, one step at a time,” he added.
Sarah Discaya ran against Vico Sotto in the 2025 midterm elections for Pasig mayor, adding further context to the controversy.
For more news and updates on Korina Sanchez paid political interviews, visit Filipinokami.com.
