Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte reiterated his father’s, former president Rodrigo Duterte, warning and urged the people to remain vigilant as the threat of authoritarian rule looms again.
The mayor made the statement as he enjoined the entire country in commemorating the 39th anniversary of the People Power Revolution on Tuesday.
“Martial Law, declared by Ferdinand Marcos Sr. in 1972, left a dark legacy, countless lives were lost, freedoms were stripped away, and power was concentrated in the hands of a few. As we remember those who suffered and fought for our liberties, we must remain vigilant, especially now, when the threat of authoritarian rule once again looms over our nation,” the mayor said in a statement.
In an indignation rally in Mandaue City, Cebu on Saturday, the former president warned that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. might not cede power when his term ends in 2028 and might impose martial law like his father, former president Ferdinand Marcos Sr.
The former president also said that Marcos Jr. might extend his stay in power by ensuring that no elections will be held.
“Si Mr. Marcos is veering towards a dictatorship. Mopusta ko sa inyo, dili na manaog pagkahuman sa iyang termino. Pareha na sa iyang tatay, magkagubot na pud ta because ang iyang buhaton magdeclare na pud ug martial law pareho sa iyang papa. ‘Pag martial law, walay eleksyon,” the former president said.
Meanwhile, as part of his People Power anniversary message, the mayor emphasized that People Power was more than just a revolution but a testament to the collective strength of the Filipino people in demanding truth, justice, and accountability.
“It is also a reminder that we must remain united against any form of oppression. Let us honor its legacy by ensuring that history is never distorted, our rights are never trampled upon, and our democracy remains intact for future generations. May the darkest times in our history never happen again,” he said.
