In a move that surprised both supporters and critics alike, former President Rodrigo Duterte has confirmed his candidacy for the mayoralty of Davao City in the 2025 midterm elections. The announcement, made at a press conference in Davao City on a quiet Saturday evening, signals Duterte’s return to the local political arena where his remarkable journey began. This development has reignited discussions about the future of Davao City and the lasting political legacy of the Duterte family, which continues to wield significant influence both locally and nationally.
A Political Journey Spanning Decades
Rodrigo “Digong” Duterte’s political career is one for the history books. His rise to national prominence began with his roots as a mayor, and his return to the position now seems to bring his journey full circle. He first assumed the role of mayor of Davao City in 1988, a position he held for over two decades through multiple non-consecutive terms, making him one of the longest-serving mayors in the country. Duterte’s strongman approach to governance earned him a reputation as a crime-fighter who transformed Davao City from a crime-ridden area into one of the safest cities in the Philippines. His tough stance on crime and drugs won him both ardent followers and fierce critics.
Duterte’s unyielding leadership in Davao served as a launchpad for his presidential bid in 2016. His presidency was marked by controversial policies, most notably the war on drugs, which has been heavily scrutinized both domestically and internationally. However, his populist rhetoric and the image of being a no-nonsense leader deeply resonated with a significant portion of the Filipino electorate, enabling him to serve a full six-year term as the country’s chief executive.
Back to the Beginning: Running for Davao Mayor Again
As Duterte re-enters the political stage in Davao, the implications of his candidacy extend far beyond the city’s borders. His son, Sebastian “Baste” Duterte, who is the current mayor, will be running as his vice mayor, signaling that the Duterte family is aiming to maintain a tight grip on local governance. Baste’s term as mayor has largely been viewed as a continuation of the policies that his father implemented during his long reign. The tandem of father and son running together further cements the Duterte family’s influence in Davao, a city that has been under their control for decades.
Duterte’s decision to run for mayor raises several questions about his political motivations and aspirations. Some speculate that his return to local governance is a strategic move to safeguard his family’s political stronghold amid shifting national dynamics. Others see it as a retreat from the limelight of national politics, where Duterte has faced increasing pressure from international human rights groups and local opposition parties over his administration’s policies, particularly his anti-drug campaign.
Davao’s Future: What’s Next?
With Duterte at the helm, Davao City’s future could be a continuation of the status quo—marked by policies that emphasize law and order, economic development, and a militarized approach to public safety. However, it could also signal the emergence of new political dynamics. Davao, under Duterte’s leadership, became a model city for his broader national policies. Whether the former president will introduce any new initiatives or simply maintain the trajectory he set during his previous mayoral terms remains to be seen.
Critics argue that Duterte’s return to local politics may stifle opportunities for new leadership in Davao. Over the years, the city has become synonymous with the Duterte brand, and some fear that this dominance could hinder political diversity and innovation. Others, particularly Duterte loyalists, see his comeback as a positive development, believing that his leadership style will continue to bring stability and prosperity to Davao.
The Duterte Legacy in National Politics
While Duterte’s candidacy for mayor may seem like a return to his political roots, it also raises the question of his broader legacy in national politics. Even though he is no longer in the presidential palace, Duterte remains an influential figure in Philippine politics. His daughter, Sara Duterte, currently serves as Vice President, and his political endorsements continue to hold weight in national elections. With the Duterte family still playing a crucial role in shaping the country’s political future, this local election could have national implications.
Duterte’s return to Davao could serve as a political springboard for the family’s future ventures. Whether through Sara Duterte’s continued rise or Baste Duterte’s grooming for national office, the family’s stronghold on Davao could have far-reaching consequences for Philippine politics in the years to come.
Conclusion
Rodrigo Duterte’s decision to run for mayor of Davao City in the 2025 midterm elections marks a significant moment in his long political career. It symbolizes a return to his roots but also underscores the continued influence of the Duterte family in both local and national politics. As Davao City gears up for another election cycle with Duterte back in the spotlight, the city’s future—and perhaps the country’s political landscape—remains intertwined with the Duterte legacy. Whether his return will bring about new changes or a continuation of the past remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Duterte’s political career is far from over.
