Mayor Sotto to public admin student: ‘Prepare yourself’

MANILA, Philippines — After over three years, Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto responded again to a student, who sought his advice to the younger generation seeking to work in the government and serve the public.

The question came from a graduating public administration student, who also asked Sotto about the planning process of local government units (LGUs) in March 2022.

In a post on X last April 6, the student shared a photo of her with Sotto and snaps of her notebook containing the mayor’s answers to her questions this year and in 2022.

“I am a graduating public administration student. What advice would you give to the younger generation who aspires to work in the government and serve the public,” the student asked.

“Prepare yourself (study + experience). Connect with people who share similar principles, values, and beliefs—they will help keep you on the right track. God bless,” Sotto answered.

The student was even surprised that Sotto remembered her after showing him her notebook.

In 2022, Sotto helped the student with her group assignment about how the public can “best participate” in the planning process of LGUs.

The mayor replied, saying that “ordinary citizens should take advantage of the mechanisms for participation that the government has to offer.”