FOLLOWING a protest at the Saint Gerrard Construction Building this morning, Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto has urged calm and restraint, emphasizing the importance of due process and the potential dangers of violence.
“I understand that we are angry and frustrated, but let’s not resort to violence or acts that could potentially lead to violence or injuries,” Mayor Sotto stated in a public address.
He further elaborated, “Hindi naman yung mga corrupt ang masasaktan pag bumigay ang gate, hindi rin sila ang matatamaan ng bato. Nag-aalala ako para sa mga security guard, trabahador, at ralyista mismo,” (It’s not the corrupt who will get hurt if the gate breaks down, they won’t be the ones hit by stones. I’m worried about the security guards, workers, and the protesters themselves.)
Despite acknowledging the public’s frustration, Mayor Sotto urged citizens not to lose hope.
“Don’t feel hopeless… the momentum is on the right side now!!! Let us continue to fight for ACCOUNTABILITY, STRONGER INSTITUTIONS, AND THE RULE OF LAW. There are no shortcuts.”
He also assured the public that the local government is actively involved in addressing the issue.
“Rest assured, we in the LGU will continue to do our part with investigation, case build up, and even prosecution. Not just for the Discaya companies. Anything we can do to help. We have had initial exchanges of info and coordination with at least five national government agencies… nararamdaman din namin na bumibilis ang kilos nila ngayon,” (We also feel that their actions are speeding up now.)
He added that the LGU is also pursuing criminal cases and administrative actions related to local concerns such as illegal building structures and business tax delinquencies.
