Javi Benitez Teams Up w/ Vico Sotto to Demand Transparency in Gov’t Projects
JAVI BENITEZ – Negros Occidental lawmaker Javi Benitez is doubling down on his call for transparency as he praises Pasig Mayor Vico Sotto for championing good governance.
Negros Occidental 3rd District Representative Javi Benitez recently expressed his admiration for Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto, commending his leadership and commitment to transparency in governance. The two public officials crossed paths during the House Infrastructure Committee hearing, where they discussed the need for stronger oversight and accountability in government projects.
Benitez and Sotto are both members of Mayors for Good Governance (M4GG), a group that champions honesty, transparency, and citizen-centered governance. Reflecting on their meeting, Benitez wrote: “It was a pleasure to meet Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto at today’s House Infrastructure Committee hearing. As fellow members of Mayors for Good Governance (M4GG), we stand united in our commitment to transparency, accountability, and a government that truly serves the people.”
The young lawmaker, who served as Victorias City Mayor from 2022 to 2025 before becoming a congressman, emphasized the importance of protecting taxpayers’ money. He pointed to ongoing problems with defective infrastructure projects, stressing that contractors must be held accountable. In another statement, he said: “After assessing those with reported damages, I made it clear: contractors must fix them at no additional cost to the government. Public funds are meant to serve the people, not to pay twice for the same work.”
Benitez also revealed that he had requested a comprehensive briefing from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to review projects spanning 2016 to 2025. This, he explained, was part of his push to ensure that infrastructure developments truly benefit the public and not just private interests.
Additionally, Benitez voiced support for the creation of an independent commission tasked with monitoring government infrastructure projects. He underscored that citizen involvement remains vital in ensuring accountability: “But accountability should not rest on public officials alone. We must all be active citizens not only on social media, but also in keeping watch over the programs, services, and projects that shape our communities.”
By aligning with reform-minded leaders like Mayor Vico Sotto, Benitez highlighted his vision of governance where transparency, efficiency, and responsibility are at the forefront of public service.