DAVAO CITY – City officials, guests, and beneficiaries gathered on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, to witness the ribbon-cutting and inauguration of the Rodrigo Duterte Academic Building at Balay Dangupan—a space designed to foster healing, learning, and empowerment among children in crisis.
Named “Our Tatay Digong Classroom,” the facility was donated by friends and supporters of former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, in honor of his longstanding commitment to the welfare of children and vulnerable communities. The academic building is equipped with a comfort room, television, computer, mini library, mini storage room, and a playground—creating a holistic environment for education and recovery for Balay Dangupan residents.
Leading the inauguration was Acting City Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte, who expressed heartfelt gratitude to the donors for sustaining the legacy of his father.
“Dako akong pasalamat sa mga nagtabang niini, labi na kay ilang ginaipadayon ang paningkamot ni Tatay Digong para sa mga bata (I am deeply grateful to those who made this possible, especially because they are continuing Tatay Digong’s efforts for the children),” said the younger Duterte.
He addressed the young residents, urging them to make the most of the opportunity to learn and grow.
“Pagtuon lang mo kay ako gusto makita puhon nga makaginhawa pud mo sa kinabuhi (Just keep learning, because what I want is to see you succeed in life),” the acting mayor told the children.
Established nearly 31 years ago during Rodrigo Duterte’s tenure as Davao City mayor, Balay Dangupan serves as a crisis intervention center primarily for abused female children. It provides temporary shelter, psychosocial services, educational support, and in-house face-to-face classes. Over the years, it has become a nurturing haven that enables young survivors to rebuild their lives.
Several former residents, now successful professionals, continue to return to the center to share their stories and inspire those currently under care. Their journeys stand as proof of the quality and compassionate services Balay Dangupan provides—emphasizing resilience, dignity, and hope.
The inaugural event was also graced by Acting Vice Mayor Rodrigo “Rigo” Duterte II, City Councilor Al Ryan Alejandre, City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) Head Julie P. Dayaday, personnel of Balay Dangupan, and friends of the Duterte family who contributed to the project.
The new academic building not only expands the educational services at Balay Dangupan but also symbolizes a continuing legacy of protection and opportunity for Davao City’s most vulnerable children.