Sarah Discaya’s camp denies any legal violation over British passport issue
THE legal counsel of Pasig City mayoral candidate Sarah Discaya has clarified that she committed no legal violation in relation to her British passport, saying there is no basis for any disqualification case against her.
Atty. Edward Gialogo, Discaya’s lawyer, stressed that his client 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 issued Wednesday (16 Apr 2025).
“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.
Gialogo cited the Supreme Court decision in Gana-Carait vs COMELEC, which affirms that individuals who are dual citizens by birth are not barred from running for public office.
He also challenged Pasig City Mayor Vico 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,” Gialogo said.
