Vico Sotto: Most public servants want clean gov't

Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto, one of the youngest local government executives in the Philippines, highlighted his administration's battle against corruption and the strides made toward institutional reform.

- By MARK ERNEST VILLEZA

In an interview with The STAR's online show titled "Truth on the Line," Sotto underscored the importance of building strong systems and shifting cultural mindsets to combat the endemic problem of corruption.

"Corruption is a problem of weak institutions and cultural acceptance," he said.

"For decades, certain practices have become ingrained and accepted. We've shown in Pasig that these can be challenged and changed," he added.

Sotto expressed belief that the majority of public servants want clean and honest government, but need leadership to expose wrongdoing and pursue reforms.

He detailed how his administration tackled entrenched corruption in the city.

Sotto said his administration confronted alleged syndicates illegally earning billions annually.

“Around 20-30 percent – sometimes more – of project budgets were pocketed. By eliminating kickbacks and the ‘palakasan’ system, we’ve proven that change is possible,” he said.