Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto has called on the University of the Philippines College of Law Class of 2026 to champion integrity and reject systemic corruption as they embark on their legal careers, emphasizing that the nation’s progress rests on professionals who refuse to succumb to a compromised system.
Serving as the commencement speaker at the graduation rites held in Quezon City on Saturday, Sotto candidly shared that his tenure in public service frequently brings disillusionment, yet witnessing the graduates has restored his faith in the future.
“As someone who has been trying to fight for positive reforms and changes in our government, I have to admit to you that many times, I feel frustrated almost every day… I feel a lack of hope. Parang ang hirap namang sabihin hopeless, but standing here… looking at your glowing faces, looking at the Class of 2026… I feel hopeful again. I feel a resurgence of hope in my heart.”
The local chief executive pointed out that maintaining ethical standards starts with individual decisions, cautioning that systemic corruption typically takes root through minor concessions that gradually turn into acceptable behavior.
He urged the new legal professionals to hold fast to their values, even when confronted with immense pressure to participate in illicit or dishonorable practices.
Concluding his address, Sotto stressed that genuine national transformation cannot be achieved by a solitary political figure, but rather through the collective efforts of a fresh cohort of values-driven leaders.
“There will be no savior of our nation. How fast we go will depend on you — the incoming generation of leaders and changemakers.”
“When you find yourself at the crossroads, will you choose the easier, more convenient path to success or will you stand with integrity? Will you stand for truth and justice. To the Class of 2026, may you become great lawyers, who will not only lead with excellence but also with integrity.”