“The youth is the hope of our nation” – Dr. Jose P. Rizal, Philippines’ National Hero.

The current population of the Philippines is 110,500,00 as of February 10, 2021, based on Worldometer elaboration of the latest United Nations data. Meanwhile, the median age is at 25 years old, meaning to say that the majority of its population belongs to young generation.

Among these millions of youth in the Philippines, one is now at the height of public attention. A certain Victor “Vico” Sotto, a young politician who took the risks of ending the Political Dynasty in Pasig City. A 29 year-old holder of Degree in Political Science and Masters in Public Management.

“Millennial Mayor” that’s what they call him because he got not only the looks, the brain but also the dedication of serving the people. During the COVID-19 Pandemic he has quickly responded to the residents by giving of food supplies, disinfecting public places with the used of drones, billed the Anti-Panic Buying and Hoarding Ordinance, vowed full salaries for all Pasig government workers- even those on ‘no work, no pay’ job orders. Likewise, medical employees have been receiving hazard and overtime pay, and also implemented the mobile market that rolls into the Barangays of Pasig City.

Vico Sotto is really the best gift ever to Pasig with his dedication, faith to God and the eagerness to make a change and serve the people. He is a good example to Dr. Jose P. Rizal and to all the Filipino youth.

As a public school teacher, I hope that my students would appraise to be like Vico Sotto, that they may have a clear vision of what they want to be in the future. I always imagine a society where youth have high regards to achieving dreams and making this country finally great and worthy of emulation.

I believe that my imagination will soon be reality, and our National Hero’s vision will come true.

By: Emeliza M. Magdaraog | Teacher 1 | Kalalake Elementary School