Vico Sotto acted beyond mandate, should stay neutral

I would like to praise Pasig Mayor Vico Sotto for his concern and commitment to the people of his city, especially those in the lower class. I do appreciate his willingness to help.

However, Sotto’s act is beyond the mandated task of a local government head. I agree with Interior Secretary Eduardo Año that Sotto should not take sides in the labor dispute, since the Department of Labor and Employment is the right agency to hear and decide on the case. Only when peace and order is disrupted should local chief executives intervene, since they act as the chief law enforcer.

Yes, the protesting laborers are not criminals and they have the right to free expression. But didn’t these people also violate laws and regulations, that’s why they were arrested and sent to jail? I know Sotto is a good man and a good mayor of his city. But please act accordingly, and do not be deceived by your emotions or what you just see.

JOMARIE KAYE PATALINGHUG
[email protected]