Vico Sotto’s appeal being used for illegal investment schemes

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June 8, 2026 | 12:00am

MANILA, Philippines — Scammers are now capitalizing on the popularity and credibility of Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto, a known champion of anti-corruption, in their investments schemes through the use of artificial intelligence (AI) technology.

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) said it has received reports indicating that certain online accounts and social media pages are disseminating materials using the image, likeness, voice and persona of Sotto.

The materials, which appear to have been generated and altered through AI technology, seek to create the false impression that the Pasig City mayor is endorsing or guaranteeing investment  schemes, with some even claiming guaranteed profits or fixed monthly returns.

As such, the SEC has cautioned the public against videos, images, social media posts and online advertisements  circulating on various online platforms that appear to feature Sotto endorsing, promoting, guaranteeing or soliciting investments and other financial opportunities.

The commission, in particular, identified Invescorum as among the entities using AI-generated or manipulated promotional materials falsely depicting Sotto.

Information gathered by the SEC showed that Invescorum presents itself as an online trading and investment platform allegedly utilizing AI-driven algorithms and automated trading systems to identify and execute profitable stock market trades.

The commission said the platform promotes unrealistic and guaranteed earning claims, including purported profits of up to P940,000 per month from an initial investment of P15,000.

To create a false appearance of legitimacy and credibility to entice the public to invest, the platform uses fake endorsements falsely depicting public personalities including Sotto.