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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider Metro Manila devider Pasig mayoral bet's camp denies legal violation over use of British passport

Pasig mayoral bet's camp denies legal violation over use of British passport

Published Apr 16, 2025 02:29 pm

The legal counsel of Pasig City mayoral bet Sarah Discaya has denied any legal violation related to her use of a British passport, following Mayor Vico Sotto’s claim that she used it recently in 2025, which he said could be grounds for disqualification.

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Sarah Discaya (Photo from Ate Sarah Discaya)

The camp said there is no basis for any disqualification case against Discaya, as her lawyer, Edward Gialogo, emphasized that she is a dual citizen by birth, having been born in London to Filipino overseas workers.

“There was no violation or wrongdoing on the part of Mrs. Sarah Discaya that can be used as grounds for disqualification,” Gialogo said in a press statement. 

“Being a dual citizen by birth, she automatically acquired British citizenship by being born in London, while retaining her Filipino citizenship. Under Philippine law, she is not required to undertake any legal action to participate in the upcoming May 12, 2025 elections,” he added.

The lawyer also cited the Supreme Court decision in Gana-Carait vs. Comelec, which confirms that dual citizens by birth are allowed to run for public office.

On Monday, April 14, Sotto said he might have grounds to question his opponent’s eligibility for mayor, claiming that Discaya allegedly used her British passport this year, after disclosing that Discaya's husband had filed a petition for disqualification against him in January.

The mayor explained that using a foreign passport after filing a certificate of candidacy is not allowed under Philippine election law as it can be seen as continuing an “act of allegiance” to another country.

Related story: https://mb.com.ph/2025/4/15/case-vs-mayor-vico-junked-rival-may-face-disqualification-over-foreign-passport-use

Gialogo challenged Sotto to present evidence supporting his public claim that Discaya violated Philippine laws, which could lead to her disqualification.

“We encourage Mayor Vico Sotto to provide proof to back his allegations,” he said.

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