Biography
Who is Vicente Sotto?
Early life and education
Vicente Castelo Sotto III was born on August 24, 1948, in Manila, Philippines. He was born to Marcelino Antonio Sotto Sr. And Dr. Herminia Castelo-Sotto. The politician comes from a family with a strong history of public service; his paternal grandfather was a former senator also named Vicente Sotto, who especially authored the Press Freedom Law. Another relative, Filemon Sotto, was a senator involved in drafting the 1935 Constitution.
For his formal education, Vicente attended Colegio de San Juan de Letran in Intramuros, Manila. He completed his elementary, high school, and college studies at this institution. He eventually earned a Bachelor of Arts degree while majoring in English. He also attended De La Salle University.
Musical and television career
Before his extensive political tenure, Vicente established a significant career in the Philippine entertainment industry. In the 1960s, he began his musical path by joining the combo Tilt Down Men. He later achieved prominence as a songwriter and founded the band VST & Co. Alongside his brothers Vic and Val Sotto. This group is often cited as a pioneer of the Manila sound and is considered among the best Filipino bands in history. One of his most well-known compositions is the song Magkaisa, which became an anthem during the 1986 People Power Revolution.
In television, Vicente became widely known as one of the original hosts of Eat Bulaga!. This variety program holds the record for being the longest-running entertainment show in the history of Philippine television. Beyond hosting, he appeared as an actor in numerous films and television programs throughout his career.
Political tenure and public service
The political career of Vicente Sotto began in local government when he served as the vice mayor of Quezon City from 1988 to 1992. He founded the Vice-Mayors League of the Philippines and served as its initial president. Also, he held the position of Vice Chairman of Citizens Drugwatch during that period.
Vicente was first elected to the Senate of the Philippines in 1992, securing the highest number of votes in that election. He went on to serve multiple terms in the upper chamber. His leadership roles include serving as Senate majority leader and Senate minority leader. He eventually achieved the position of President of the Senate of the Philippines, holding this office from 2018 to 2022 and again starting in 2025. Between his Senate terms, he led the Dangerous Drugs Board from 2008 to 2009. He is recognized as the longest-serving Philippine senator in history and the only one elected for five non-consecutive terms.
Athletic achievements and personal life
Beyond his work in entertainment and politics, Vicente Sotto was an active athlete. He represented the Philippines as a member of the national bowling team. His participation included competing several times at the AMF World Cup. He also secured a bronze medal while representing the country at the 1978 Asian Games.
Regarding his personal life, Vicente is married to Helen Gamboa. The couple has three children named Ciara, Gian, and Lala. He has three siblings known in the industry: Vic Sotto, Val Sotto, and Maru Sotto.
Birthday and age
Vicente Sotto was born on August 24, 1948, which makes Vicente 78 years old today. That birthday falls under the Virgo sign. Vicente shares the date with 36 other famous people.
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