Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte, Secretary General of Hugpong sa Tawong Lungsod (HTL) Party, has kicked out Councilors Wilberto E. Al-ag, Bernard E. Al-ag, Barangay Captains Lilibeth Al-ag and Bernadette Al-ag of Toril from the party.
In a statement, Duterte said HTL remains steadfast in upholding its values and principles, guided by its Constitution and By-Laws.
The mayor stated that after careful deliberation, HTL announced the expulsion of abovementioned names.
The mayor said this action has been taken in strict adherence to Article 7 on Party Discipline and Loss of Membership, specifically Section 6, which outlines the grounds for automatic expulsion:
Article 7, Section 6(b): “Assisting/helping other political parties or individuals who are not Hugpong members in the furtherance of their political aim or purpose without prior approval of the Party.”
“It has been confirmed that these individuals have been actively supporting the Tingog Partylist, a political entity not aligned with the Hugpong sa Tawong Lungsod Party. Their involvement in activities promoting the interests of the Tingog Partylist, rather than the Hugpong agenda, constitutes a direct violation and betrayal of the Party’s rules and principles,” Duterte said.
The mayor said HTL remains fully committed to supporting the Pwersa ng Pilipinong Pandaragat (PPP), an allied organization that shares the vision of HTL for the betterment of Davao City and the greater Filipino community.
“The actions of those now expelled are incompatible with the direction and priorities of our Party,” the mayor said.
He added that the party recognizes that this decision may bring about significant discussions within the community.
“However, the integrity of our Party and our commitment to the principles we stand for must remain our top priority. We extend our gratitude to the members and supporters of Hugpong sa Tawong Lungsod for their continued trust as we move forward with unwavering dedication to our goals,” Duterte said.
Duterte encouraged all the members to remain steadfast in their commitment to the Party’s vision.
“As we continue to work together in the service of Davao City,” he said.