City hall employees and other local government staff attend the flag-raising ceremony in front of the Davao City Hall on June 20, 2022. George Calvelo, ABS-CBN News/File
DAVAO CITY — With former President Rodrigo Duterte unable to take his oath of office as Davao City mayor from detention in the Netherlands, his son Sebastian "Baste" Duterte is taking over the post. Duterte's grandson, Rodrigo "Rigo" Duterte II, is assuming the vice-mayoral spot.
Former president Duterte, who is in International Criminal Court custody for a case of the alleged crime against humanity of murder, won by a landslide in the May elections with 662,630 votes.
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His son, Vice Mayor Sebastian Duterte will continue serving as Davao City mayor, the post he held before the May elections.
Rodrigo Duterte II, who got the most votes as city councilor in May moves up to vice mayor, who also serves as presiding officer of the city council.
Rodrigo II is the son of Davao City 1st District Rep. Paolo Duterte. His brother, Omar, has also been elected 2nd District representative.
Rodrigo II presided over the first regular session of the 21st Davao City Council on Tuesday, July 1.
He said he was nervous but is relying on the support of his fellow councilors and of his family.
"I think it was not bad," he said in a media interview.
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He said he plans to prioritize legislation on peace and order, improving the city's healthcare system, and education.
He added, however, that he hopes his grandfather and namesake will be able to serve his term.
"Kay mao jud na akong gusto nga si Tiyo Baste ang presiding officer, unya akong lolo ang mahimong mayor (Dahil ang gusto ko talaga ay si Tiyo Baste ang magiging presiding officer, tapos ang lolo ko ang magiging mayor)," he said.
(Because that is what I want, for Uncle Baste to be the presiding officer while my grandfather would be mayor)