DAVAO CITY – Acting Davao City Vice Mayor Rodrigo "Rigo" Duterte II called for unity, integrity, and unwavering dedication to public service as the 21st City Council was formally introduced on Monday, July 21, after the flag ceremony at Davao City Hall.

Addressing city officials and employees, Duterte underscored the vital role of leadership founded on compassion, accountability, and honesty.

He reminded them that public office is not only a position of authority but a responsibility anchored in the trust of the people.

“Public service is not just about delivering efficient and fair services to our fellow Dabawenyos,” Duterte said. "It is about performing our duties with sincerity and moral uprightness.”

He paid tribute to the legacy of good governance in Davao City and urged council members to uphold and build upon that tradition.

Duterte emphasized that both elected and appointed officials share the same mission – “to uplift the lives of their constituents through responsive and transparent governance.”

As one of the city’s youngest leaders, Duterte encouraged the council to use their roles to address key issues, provide meaningful solutions, and create a more promising future for the next generation of Dabawenyos.

“Let us use our positions not only to address challenges but to inspire hope. Our decisions today shape the tomorrow of our people."

He acknowledged the support of acting Davao City Mayor Sebastian Z. Duterte and thanked city government employees for their continuous dedication to public service.

Vice Mayor Duterte called for solidarity among the council and the broader city leadership, urging everyone to rise above political differences in pursuit of a common goal.

“Let us strive for a progressive Davao. Let not our political beliefs divide us, but rather let the peace and love we’ve long fostered continue to bind us together," Vice Mayor Duterte said.