Full Statement Of Vico Sotto Against The Discaya Clan In Heated Committee Hearing

The political arena was shaken as Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto delivered a full and unfiltered statement against the Discaya family during a highly charged congressional committee hearing. His words, sharp and unflinching, set the tone for what many now call one of the most explosive moments in recent Philippine politics.

The tension before the storm

Committee hearings in the Philippines are no stranger to heated exchanges, but the latest session involving Mayor Vico Sotto and the influential Discaya clan was different. It was not just about technicalities or bureaucratic reports—it was about integrity, governance, and the future of Pasig.

The Discayas, a powerful political family with deep roots in the region, have long been accused of wielding influence over local projects, businesses, and even the city bureaucracy. Allegations of corruption, manipulation of funds, and unfair contracts have circulated for years. But until now, few dared to confront them openly in a national platform.

That changed when Mayor Vico Sotto, known for his calm demeanor and reformist stance, stood before the committee and read his full statement.

The opening salvo

Vico began his statement with controlled composure, thanking the committee for the opportunity to speak. But within minutes, the tone shifted as he began to detail the issues he claimed had plagued Pasig for decades.

“For too long,” he said, “the people of Pasig have been forced to live under a shadow of fear and manipulation. The Discaya family has positioned itself as untouchable, using influence to control resources meant for the public.”

The words struck like thunder. Gasps were heard inside the session hall as he named names, citing projects allegedly stalled, overpriced, or redirected for personal gain.

Specific allegations

Mayor Vico’s statement was not a general tirade; it was a carefully structured breakdown of grievances. Among the issues he highlighted:

Infrastructure funds diverted: He alleged that roadworks and drainage projects were delayed because contracts were funneled to companies linked to the Discayas.
Healthcare projects manipulated: Medical supplies and hospital allocations, he said, were inflated and often traced back to firms tied to the family.
Political intimidation: He claimed that city officials who resisted the clan’s influence were either sidelined or forced to resign under pressure.

“These are not rumors,” he declared. “These are facts supported by documents, testimonies, and the lived experiences of our people.”

The emotional crescendo

At one point, his voice cracked—not with weakness, but with controlled emotion.

“I did not enter politics to pick fights,” he said. “I entered to serve. But service means facing the truth, even when it means confronting giants who have long terrorized our city.”

The audience, a mix of lawmakers, media representatives, and ordinary citizens who managed to secure entry, erupted in applause.

The Discaya response

Not surprisingly, the Discayas were quick to counter. Through their legal counsel, they dismissed the allegations as “baseless, politically motivated, and designed to tarnish the family’s good name.”

One member of the clan present at the hearing insisted that all contracts went through the proper bidding process and that no evidence of wrongdoing had ever been proven in court.

“This is nothing more than a political drama staged for publicity,” the lawyer said, attempting to downplay the gravity of Vico’s accusations.

But the damage had been done. The public had heard the mayor’s words, and they spread like wildfire across social media.

Public reaction

Within hours, hashtags like #VicoVsDiscaya and #PasigTruth trended on Twitter and Facebook. Supporters hailed him as a hero unafraid to take on entrenched powers.

One netizen wrote: “Finally, someone has the courage to speak what we’ve all known for years. Pasig deserves better.”

Others warned of possible retaliation: “The Discayas won’t take this sitting down. Vico needs protection. This is bigger than just politics—it’s survival.”

A history of reform

Vico Sotto’s clash with the Discayas is not entirely surprising. Since taking office, he has made transparency and accountability his cornerstones. His governance style—leaning heavily on data, community participation, and digital transparency—has often clashed with the traditional patronage system that families like the Discayas thrive on.

In his statement, he reminded the committee of his oath to serve without compromise.

“My only loyalty is to the people of Pasig,” he said. “I have no loyalty to clans, corporations, or vested interests. That is what true public service demands.”

Analysts weigh in

Political analysts quickly dissected the hearing, noting that Vico’s decision to confront the Discayas so openly was both risky and historic.

“On one hand, he positions himself as the champion of reform,” one analyst commented. “On the other, he paints a target on his back. The Discayas have resources, connections, and decades of political machinery behind them.”

Some also questioned whether his boldness would translate into actual reforms or whether it would simply inflame an already dangerous feud.

The committee’s next move

Lawmakers presiding over the hearing promised to review the documents submitted by Mayor Vico and to invite the Discayas to provide counter-evidence. Whether the investigation leads to legal consequences remains to be seen, but the public pressure is undeniable.

What was once whispered in hushed tones about the Discayas is now in the national spotlight, with the potential to reshape not just Pasig politics but also the broader landscape of local governance in the Philippines.

Conclusion: A fight far from over

The committee hearing may be over, but the battle it sparked has only begun. Mayor Vico Sotto’s full statement against the Discaya family was more than a political speech—it was a declaration of war against a system of impunity.

For the people of Pasig, it was a rare moment of truth laid bare for the entire nation to see. For the Discayas, it was an unprecedented public attack that they are unlikely to forgive or forget.

As one commentator summed it up: “This is not just Vico versus the Discayas. This is the new politics versus the old. The outcome will decide the future of Pasig—and perhaps the country.”