The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), through Secretary Jonvic Remulla, formally directed on Tuesday Davao City Vice Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte to assume the role of acting mayor following the temporary legal incapacity of former President Rodrigo Duterte (FPRRD), who was proclaimed mayor-elect in absentia.
According to the DILG, the order is grounded in Section 46(a) of the Local Government Code, which clearly states that in cases of temporary incapacity, whether physical or legal, the Vice Mayor shall automatically perform the duties and exercise the powers of the Mayor.
“You are hereby enjoined to perform the duties and functions of Mayor of Davao City to prevent paralysis of government operations,” Remulla said in a letter dated June 30 addressed to Vice Mayor Duterte.
The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) earlier confirmed the proclamation of FPRRD as mayor of Davao City despite his absence, citing prevailing legal issues that hinder his assumption of office. In response, the DILG moved decisively to uphold uninterrupted service delivery and local governance in one of the country’s key cities.
Under the same succession framework, the Department also designated 1st-ranked Sangguniang Panlungsod member First District Councilor Rodrigo “Rigo” Duterte II as acting vice mayor. This is according to Administrative Order No. 15, series of 2018, which lays down rules on the temporary filling of vacancies in local elective offices.
Meanwhile, Rigo presided over the first regular session of the 21st City Council at the Sangguniang Panlungsod in Davao City on Tuesday.
He told the media after the session that he was a bit nervous, but happy that the councilors were there to assist him.
“Nakulbaan pero daghan man mutabang sa akoa ug mi-support sa akoa na mga konsehal, naa pud ang akong mga tiyo mutabang sa akoa,” he said.
In his inaugural speech, Rigo expressed optimism that with the cooperation of the City Council and the unwavering support of the Dabawenyos, the city government of Davao can continue building a promising future for Davao City.
“I humbly accept this responsibility, knowing it comes with the trust and expectations of the people who have placed their confidence in me. As we gather here, I am reminded of the rich history and vibrant spirit that define Davao. We are a people of strength, resilience, and unity, and it is these qualities that have propelled us forward through challenges and successes alike. Let us stand united in our commitment to progress, transparency, and the betterment of all Dabawenyos,” he said.
He vowed to do his best as acting vice mayor; however, still hopeful that his grandfather, FPRRD, would be able to return home.
“Sa akoa lang ha, hoping gihapon ko nga makabalik ang akoang lolo, mao gyud na ang akong gusto,” he said.
Rigo revealed that the session of the 21st City Council will now be held in the afternoon.
The session also highlighted the election for the chairmanship of different committees.
Councilor J. Melchor Quitain Jr. was elected as President Pro Tempore; Councilor Bai Hundra Cassandra Dominique Advincula as Majority Floor Leader; and Councilor Diosdado Angelo Junior Mahipus, Assistant Majority Floor Leader.
The Committee on Agriculture, Aquaculture, and Food will be chaired by Councilor Ralph Abella.
The Committee on Anti-Terrorism Chairperson is Councilor Luna Acosta.
The Committee on Appointments and Government Reorganization Chairperson is Councilor Alberto T. Ungab.
The Committee on Barangay Affairs will be chaired by ABC President January N. Duterte.
Quitain also holds the Committee on City-Owned Real Properties chairmanship.
The Committee on Civil, Political, and Human Rights will be chaired by Councilor Pamela Librado and the Committee on Cooperative Development and People’s Participation will be led by Councilor Al Ryan Alejandre.
Ungab will also lead the Committee on Disaster Risk Reduction and Management, while Councilor Antoinette Principe will chair the Committee on Education, Science, and Technology, Arts and Culture.
Councilor Louie John Bonguyan will head the Committee on Energy and Water.
Councilor Temujin “Tek” Ocampo retains his previous, Committee on Environment and Natural Resources.
The Ethics and Good Government will be led by Councilor Nonong Cabling; the Committee on Finance, Ways and Means, and Appropriations will be chaired by Councilor Danilo Dayanghirang; the Committee on Franchises and Public Utilities will be chaired by Councilor Doce Apostol, while acting Vice Mayor Rigo Duterte will chair the Committee on Future Generation.
Dayanghirang will also lead the Committee on Games and Amusements; Councilor Ragde Ibuyan will chair the Committee on Government Enterprises and Privatization; Councilor Trisha Ann Villafuerte for the Committee on Health; the Committee on Housing, Rural and Urban Development (socialized housing projects) will be chaired by Mahipus.
Rigo will lead the Committee on Housing and Subdivision Development under PD 957, while Louie John Bonguyan will lead the Committee on Housing and Subdivision Development under BP 220 (economic housing projects).
The Committee on Indigenous People, Cultural Communities and Muslim Affairs will be chaired by Datu Pagdatua Demetrio Bolo Sr. and Councilor Bonz Andre Militar continues heading the Committee on Information Technology.
Councilor Rachel Zozobrado will lead the Committee on International Relations, while Librado will head the Committee on Labor and Employment Opportunities.
Councilor Luna Acosta will continue leading the Committee on Peace and Public Safety and Councilor Jessica Bonguyan will serve on the Committee of Public Works and Highways.
Advincula will also lead the Committee on Rules, Privileges, Laws, and Ordinances; Villafuerte on the Committee of Social Services; and Ocampo on Special Publications.
The Committee on Tourism and Beautification and the Trade, Commerce, and Industry will be chaired by Councilor Myrna Dalodo-Ortiz; the Committee on Transportation and Communication will be chaired by Councilor Jopet Baluran and the Committee on Women, Children, and Family Relations chair is Councilor Richlyn Justol.
The Youth and Sports Development will be chaired by Councilor Kristine May John Abdul Mercado, while Mahipus will lead the Oversight Committee.
The councilors also elected representatives for the People’s Law Enforcement Board (PLEB): Acosta for District 1, Cabling for District 2, and Zozobrado for District 3.
