Vico Sotto bolts Aksyon Demokratiko

MANILA, Philippines — Pasig Mayor Vico Sotto has resigned from Aksyon Demokratiko, citing differences with the party’s other members.

Sotto confirmed yesterday that he parted ways with Aksyon Demokratiko in July.

He posted a copy of his resignation letter dated June 30 on Twitter.

Sotto broke his silence on the issue after ABS-CBN reported that he left the party, which backed former Manila mayor Isko Moreno as president in the last elections.

“I respected party decisions while I was a member, but for reasons stated in the letter, I decided to resign after the elections,” he said.

In his letter addressed to Aksyon Demokratiko chairman Ernesto Ramel Jr., Sotto said “events made it apparent that the party is now headed toward a different direction.”

“I believe that we are no longer a group of individuals with similar political goals and ideals. To me, this defeats the purpose of being a member of a political party,” he added.

Sotto clarified that his decision was not about any particular person or candidate.

Ramel said they did not announce Sotto’s resignation from the party immediately as it was an internal matter.

“We never intended it to be released,” Ramel said in a phone interview.

In a separate statement to reporters, Ramel said Aksyon Demokratiko is not closing its doors to Sotto should he decide to return.

“We wish him the best of luck and hope that he will continue to be an inspiration to aspiring young leaders out there,” Ramel said.

While they were hoping that Sotto would be the future of Aksyon Demokratiko, Ramel said the party is not lacking in young leaders.