(UPDATE) PASIG City Mayor Vico Sotto has not only solidified his position as Metro Manila's most trusted leader; he also has become a symbol of the kind of leader residents in the region demand, the latest survey by Tangere showed.

The April 2 to 4 survey revealed a striking disconnect between what the public wanted and what many local governments are delivering, with Sotto's transparency, tech-driven solutions and hands-on leadership setting a new benchmark.

With a staggering 95 percent satisfaction and trust rating from Pasig residents, Sotto's appeal lies in his track record: from streamlining bureaucratic processes through digital platforms to his visible presence during crises, such as the 2024 floods, where he was photographed wading through waist-deep water to assist evacuation efforts.

His anti-corruption stance — refusing pork barrel funds and mandating public budget disclosures — has also won over skeptics.

But the survey's most surprising finding was that eight out of 10 respondents outside Pasig wish their mayors would govern like Sotto.

While Sotto dominates the rankings, other mayors are earning respectable marks.

Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte maintained strong approval with 81 percent satisfaction and 82 percent trust ratings, credited for her sustainable urban initiatives including expanded green spaces and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure.

Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna followed with 80 percent satisfaction and 81 percent trust, built on her health care reforms that brought free dialysis treatment and round-the-clock emergency services to the city.

They were followed by San Juan Mayor Francis Zamora, Muntinlupa Mayor Rufino Biazon, Taguig Mayor Lani Cayetano, Valenzuela Mayor Wes Gatchalian, Makati Mayor Abby Binay, Pateros Mayor Miguel Ponce III and Caloocan Mayor Along Malapitan.

Ranked 11th was Mayor John Rey Tiangco of Navotas, followed by Benjamin Abalos Sr. of Mandaluyong, Eric Olivarez of Parañaque, Emi Calixto-Rubiano of Pasay, Jeannie Sandoval of Malabon, Las Piñas Mayor Imelda Aguilar and Marikina City Mayor Marcy Teodoro.

The survey highlights several critical trends reshaping Metro Manila's political landscape. Urban voters increasingly prioritize competent service delivery over political pedigree, with infrastructure, traffic management and waste disposal topping their concerns.

Younger demographics, particularly those ages 18 to 35, are emerging as a decisive force, strongly favoring reformist leaders like Sotto.

Perhaps most significantly, transparency and accountability have become nonnegotiable for constituents, with corruption and inefficiency now carrying heavier political consequences.

The survey used a mobile application with 2,040 respondents across Metro Manila's 17 local government units.

The margin of error stands at ±2.13 percent, with the confidence level at 95 percent.