In Photo: Acting Davao City Vice Mayor Rodrigo “Rigo” Duterte II graces the launching of the Office of the Vice President’s 90th Anniversary Pop-Up Exhibit at SM City Davao
By Ivy Tejano
DAVAO CITY – Acting Davao City Vice Mayor Rodrigo “Rigo” Duterte II bared that the formal date for his and Acting Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte’s oath-taking has yet to be set, as the city leadership is still assessing the circumstances of an elected mayor unable to assume office.
Former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte — who won a resounding mandate as Mayor of Davao City in the May 2025 elections — remains unable to take his post as he continues to be detained at the International Criminal Court in The Hague.
Speaking to reporters after the Office of the Vice President’s 90th Anniversary Pop-Up Exhibit launch at SM City Davao on Monday, Vice Mayor Duterte said the formal oath-taking for the city’s new leadership team will likely happen on or before December.
“Our lawyer has already informed me when it will likely be, maybe before December or December. I will take my oath together with Mayor Baste,” he said, adding that former President Duterte has been fully briefed on the matter during their recent visit to The Hague.
“Mayor Rodrigo Duterte already knows about the oath-taking. We talked about it at The Hague,” he said, recalling the conversation with his grandfather, who remains committed to staying updated on Davao City affairs despite his detention.
He added that the former President gave him essential guidance on leadership and governance. “He told me to always prioritize public service in Davao City and throughout the country, and to remain focused on the needs of the people.”
Once formally sworn in, Vice Mayor Duterte said he intends to focus on two key areas he has consistently observed to be the most urgent concerns of Davaoeños — health, particularly for senior citizens, and education, particularly for the youngsters.
He also credited his experience supporting his father, First District Rep. Paolo “Pulong” Duterte, for shaping his approach to public service and deepening his understanding of community needs. He said he would do his best to serve the people of Davao.
Vice Mayor Duterte clarified that no discussions have occurred regarding who will fill the council seat he will vacate upon his formal assumption of the vice mayoralty. He stressed the replacement will definitely come from the local party Hugpong sa Tawong Lungsod.
When asked whether Veronica “Kitty” Duterte — the former President’s youngest daughter — could take his place: “Possible, maybe, but we still have to discuss it within the party,” he said, adding that no names have been finalized.
As Davao City waits for the formal oath-taking of its acting leaders, local officials are adjusting to the unusual situation of the mayor’s detention. The younger Duterte emphasized the importance of stability, continued service, and following the example set by the city’s long-time leadership.
