Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte and his younger sister, Veronica “Kitty” Duterte, led the Miting de Avance of Hugpong sa Tawong Lungsod (HTL) on Friday at the rotunda along C. Bangoy Street and Roxas Avenue in Davao City.
Despite the heavy rain, Mayor Duterte remained undeterred, addressing the crowd with unwavering resolve. The event featured the HTL candidates alongside the DuterTen senatorial slate, which includes Dabawenyos Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go and Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, as well as Pastor Apollo Quiboloy and Dr. Richard Mata. The slate is also composed of Jimmy Bondoc, Philip Salvador, Jayvee Hinlo, Raul Lambino, Rodante Marcoleta, and Vic Rodriguez.
Even as he got drenched and his microphone malfunctioned multiple times, the mayor maintained high energy throughout his speech. His resilience, coupled with moments of humor, kept the soaked audience engaged and entertained.
“We are facing a difficult situation right now, and if you look closely, you can see—and even feel—the intervention of the administration in the politics here in Davao. But I am not worried because I have great faith in the Dabawenyos,” the mayor declared.
During his speech, Mayor Duterte once again touched on the controversial issue of the people’s initiative (PI).
“If you recall their first attempt at a People’s Initiative here in Davao, they called it an initiative from Congress. What did they do? They brought money, aid, and asked people to sign documents without explaining their purpose. Those papers could have been used to change the constitution and extend the terms of incumbents. What did we do? We stood our ground and stopped it,” he emphasized.
Kitty Duterte, the youngest daughter of former President Rodrigo Duterte, delivered an emotional yet powerful speech, similar to those she had given in previous rallies. She urged Dabawenyos to vote for the HTL candidates and the DuterTen senatorial slate in the upcoming 2025 national and local elections as a show of support for her father and their family.
She also expressed heartfelt gratitude to those who continue to gather and safeguard their residence at Doña Luisa Subdivision in Davao City.
“Thank you, Dabawenyos, especially those who tirelessly watch over our home, and for the unwavering love and support. We truly appreciate it,” she said.
The event concluded with Baste and Kitty Duterte raising the hands of the candidates, a gesture symbolizing their endorsement and unity.
