Vic Sotto Rumored to Advise Maine Mendoza to Leave Arjo Atayde Amid Flood-Control Fund Scandal

Manila, Philippines — A dramatic new twist has emerged in the ongoing controversy involving Congressman-actor Arjo Atayde and the alleged misuse of DPWH flood-control funds. Online posts now claim that veteran TV host Vic Sotto has privately advised his daughter-in-law Maine Mendoza to separate from Arjo as the scandal deepens.

But while the rumor has gone viral and fueled heated debate, there is no official confirmation that Sotto ever made such a statement. What is clear is that Maine Mendoza has publicly defended her husband, and Arjo himself has strongly denied all corruption allegations.

The Origins of the Rumor

The claim first appeared on social media fan pages and gossip sites, asserting that Vic Sotto—respected as an elder figure in Philippine entertainment—warned Maine to distance herself from the political storm surrounding Arjo. The suggestion that “Bossing” himself had weighed in gave the rumor immediate traction.

However, major outlets such as ABS-CBN, Inquirer, and GMA have not reported any such advice, and neither Sotto nor his representatives have issued a statement.

The Real Story: Flood-Control Scandal

The controversy traces back to the sworn testimonies of Sarah and Curlee Discaya, contractors who appeared before the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee. They alleged a system of 10–25% kickbacks in DPWH flood-control projects and mentioned several lawmakers by name, including Arjo Atayde.

Their testimony sparked outrage across the country, where flooding remains a yearly disaster. Watchdog groups demanded deeper probes, lifestyle checks, and documentary proof—contracts, billing records, and bank trails—to back up the claims.

Arjo Atayde’s Firm Denial

Atayde has categorically rejected the allegations. In public statements, he declared he had “never dealt with the Discayas”, dismissed a viral photograph as a casual public encounter rather than a secret meeting, and promised to cooperate fully with investigations.

“I have never asked for nor accepted bribes. These accusations are false, and I will clear my name,” Atayde said.

Maine Mendoza’s Loyalty and Legal Threats

Contrary to the rumor of marital strife, Maine Mendoza has stood firmly by her husband. In recent statements, she emphasized that their family is “not built on taxpayers’ money” and appealed to the public to allow due process rather than trial by social media.

She also revealed that legal action is being prepared against those spreading false or defamatory claims about Arjo.

“I love my husband and I believe in him. Please do not judge prematurely,” Mendoza stated.

Why the Vic Sotto Angle Went Viral

Three factors supercharged the rumor:

Star Power: Vic Sotto’s stature as a showbiz icon lends weight to any claim involving him.

Family Drama: The idea of an in-law advising separation during a political scandal adds a soap-opera dimension.

Public Pain Point: Allegations of corruption in flood-control funds strike a nerve, since millions of Filipinos live in flood-prone areas.

What to Watch Next

Investigations: Senate hearings and independent probes will look for documentary evidence beyond testimony.

Legal Cases: If Mendoza follows through with lawsuits, sworn pleadings may reveal more details and timelines.

Official Statements: Any direct word from Vic Sotto could quickly end speculation.

Court Actions: Should formal charges or warrants be filed, coverage will shift from rumor to hard fact.

Conclusion

As of today, the claim that Vic Sotto advised Maine Mendoza to leave Arjo Atayde remains unverified gossip. What is verified: the Discayas’ testimony triggered a national scandal; Arjo Atayde flatly denies wrongdoing; Maine Mendoza stands publicly by his side and signals legal action.

Until evidence or official confirmation surfaces, the “Vic Sotto advice” headline should be treated as rumor—not reality.