COUNCILOR Duterte (Ivy Tejano)
DAVAO CITY – Councilor Rodrigo “Rigo” Duterte II, grandson of former President Rodrigo Duterte and son of first district Rep. Paolo Duterte, officially assumed as acting city vice mayor on Tuesday, July 1, and presided over the Inaugural Session of the 21st City Council of Davao at the Sangguniang Panlungsod.
Councilor Duterte, being the No. 1 councilor, became acting vice mayor and his uncle, Vice Mayor Sebastian Duterte, is now acting mayor due to the absence of their patriarch, former President Duterte, who has not taken his oath of office due to his continued detention at the International Criminal Court in The Hague, Netherlands.
“I’m still hoping my grandfather can return so everything can return to normal. I want Uncle Baste to be the presiding officer and city vice mayor, and my grandfather to be mayor. For now, I’m just the acting vice mayor, following the Department of the Interior and Local Government’s recent directive for acting Mayor Duterte,” he said.
Councilor Duterte delivered his first speech before fellow legislators on Monday afternoon and pledged transparency, progress, and service to the people of Davao.
“I am deeply honored and grateful to have been elected as your new councilor. As we gather here, I’m reminded of the rich history and vibrant spirit that define Davao. We are a people of strength, resilience, and unity, and these qualities have propelled us forward through challenges and successes alike,” Councilor Duterte said.
“The road ahead may not always be smooth, but with the cooperation of the City Council and the unwavering support of our fellow Dabawenyos, I am confident we can continue building a promising future for Davao City. Let us stand united in our commitment to progress, transparency, and the betterment of all Dabawenyos,” he added.
Councilor Duterte outlined his legislative priorities, saying his top focus will be maintaining peace and order while advancing critical social services. He emphasized that he is prepared to take on the leadership responsibility despite being a newcomer to the city council.
As chairperson of the Committee on Future Generation, he vowed to push forward programs that will benefit the youth, particularly in housing and social development, in collaboration with fellow councilors.
He assured the people of Davao that he would do his best to ensure their votes for him and his family are worth it.
Councilor Duterte confirmed a schedule adjustment in future council sessions from 10 a.m. in the 20th to 1 p.m. in the 21st.
With the 21st City Council complete, the councilors are set to start working on key laws in the coming weeks.
Newly elected committee heads were sworn in, marking the beginning of the 2025–2028 legislative term, with Councilors Bai Hundra Cassandra Dominique Advincula and Diosdado Mahipus Jr. elected as the floor leader and vice floor leader, respectively.