Davao City Mayor Sebastian Duterte, president of the Partido Demokratiko Pilipino-Lakas ng Bayan, urged party members to stay united as he renewed the party's push for federalism and called for better governance during their national assembly on Saturday, July 25, at Arena Athletics in Davao City.

The PDP-Laban national president said federalism remains one of the party's core objectives, arguing that a federal form of government would allow local governments greater authority to determine their own direction and governance.

Duterte criticized the country's unitary system, saying it gives the national government too much power.

He also questioned how taxpayers' money is being spent, saying alleged irregularities in flood control projects should be prioritized over the impeachment case against Vice President Sara Duterte.

"The impeachment effort was politically motivated to weaken a potential 2028 presidential contender," Duterte said. He also accused the administration of using its authority to intimidate political opponents.

He cited the detention of a senator, the treatment of Sen. Rodante Marcoleta, and the arrest of their father, former President Rodrigo R. Duterte, who is currently detained in The Hague, Netherlands,

Mayor Duterte claimed the country's leaders have disregarded due process.

"The people are tired, and we do not want this anymore," the Davao City mayor said, citing recent survey results showing the administration's declining public approval and trust ratings.

He alleged that the country has lost P1 trillion to corruption and the loss of public funds continues to affect government services and the welfare of Filipinos.

Mayor Duterte said the present situation has allowed Filipinos to compare the current administration with that of President Duterte, who he said improved the country's image and made Filipinos proud.

Duterte called on party members to remain united and focused on what he described as the collective goal of improving the country through the 2028 elections. "This should be a collective effort. Lahat tayo magkaisa (We unite). I value unity."

He assured party members that he would remain open to hearing their concerns as national president of the PDP-Laban.

"I am only here as your instrument. I am not here for personal ambition,” Duterte said as he thanked party members and officials for their trust. "I am here to make this country work."

Officials, members, and supporters discussed the party's direction, priorities, and organizational plans for the elections during the event.