Sebastian “Baste” Duterte took his oath as Davao City mayor on Friday, permanently assuming the position held by his father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, who remains detained in The Hague.
Baste Duterte was elected vice mayor in last year’s midterm elections, while his cousin Rodrigo II won the highest number of votes for city councilor.
Because the elder Duterte could not assume office on June 30, 2025, due to his detention, Baste Duterte automatically stepped into the mayoral seat.
On the same day, Rodrigo II also took his oath as vice mayor, filling the position vacated by his uncle.
The oath-taking ceremony at City Hall was administered by Regional Trial Court XI Deputy Executive Judge Marie Estrellita S. Tolentino-Rojas and attended by family members and allies, including Rep. Isidro Ungab and lawyer Martin Delgra.
Source: PhilNews24 | January 24, 2026
