Former Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte had planned to return to his former position as mayor of Davao City. However, on October 10, he canceled his plan and joined the 2025 senatorial race instead. DZRH Radio has confirmed this report.
Duterte has filed his candidacy certificate with the Commission on Elections (Comelec) office. Honeylet Avanceña, Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte, and Vice Mayor Jay Melchor Quitain were present at the time.
The ex-president initially sought to return to the position that solidified his power and political empire. As far as what people have seen, the 2025 elections are a battle for survival for the Duterte dynasty.
Also Read: Doc Willie Ong Files COC for 2025 Senatorial Spot
Adding to today’s Rodrigo Duterte news, his son Baste initially plans to run as his vice mayoral candidate, while Quintain aims to be a councilor of the first district. Moreover, Omar Duterte will run for the congressional post of the city’s second district, while Paolo Duterte will seek re-election as 1st District Representative.
Rodrigo Duterte hinted at his plans when he met reporters on Saturday night. He started saying his old “kill” rhetoric and warning drug addicts and criminals alike.
“If I run as mayor this early, I’m saying it now, better go to Cebu or Manila, not here in Davao City, because if I become mayor again, you will really die,” Duterte said.
“They did not believe that before, they referred to it as extrajudicial killings, but I’ve said it to you, I don’t want drugs, I don’t want kidnappings, I grew up in Davao, so do not f**k with me, this is my city and I just want a peaceful city…So, if I’m going to be mayor here, you have to leave,” he added.
The former president also dared human rights groups to campaign against him in his own bailiwick.
“The human rights groups should campaign, ‘Don’t vote for Duterte,’” he stated further.
Also Read: Koko Pimentel Runs for Marikina City’s 1st District Representative.
Duterte’s former plan to run as Davao City mayor has garnered mixed reactions from the public. He has been under investigation by the International Criminal Court (ICC) for a long time due to the reported killings of thousands of people during his presidency.
While more than 6,000 of those killed were suspected of involvement in drugs, several human rights groups claim that the actual number is higher. This incident alone garnered the ex-president multiple critics.
On the other hand, many people expressed support for his plans. This was evident as supporters cheered and chanted his name while Rodrigo Duterte filed his COC.
Keep Reading: Governor Jonvic Remulla Takes Over As Next DILG Chief
Leave a Reply