[2] Prior to politics, he worked with his father in managing their family businesses, which include a hotel and pension house, a fast food restaurant, a hardware store, and trading of copra.

As he was term-limited and barred from running for a fourth term, Uy ran for Governor of Zamboanga del Norte in 2007 but was defeated by then-Governor Rolando E. Yebes.

[12] The Ombudsman found Uy guilty of simple misconduct for the termination of 6 Provincial Government employees, hired under the administration of former Governor Rolando Yebes, since assuming office in 2013.

[13][14][15][16] In a privilege speech made in the House of Representatives on September 21, 2016, Rep. Seth Frederick "Bullet" Jalosjos of Zamboanga del Norte's 1st District linked Uy and the police to the drug trade in the province.

[17] Uy, who at the time was facing suspension for simple misconduct by the Ombudsman, denied the claims made, and challenged Jalosjos to a debate which led to a congressional hearing right after.