As Davao City Vice Mayor Rodrigo “Rigo” Duterte II prepares to formally assume his post, the vacant council seat he will leave behind is drawing early interest including the possibility of being filled by his aunt, Veronica “Kitty” Duterte.
Rigo clarified that no formal discussions have taken place within Hugpong sa Tawong Lungsod (HTL) regarding his replacement, but confirmed that the appointee will “definitely” come from the party.
Asked directly about Kitty as a potential nominee, he said the idea remains open.
“Possible, maybe. But we still have to discuss it within the party,” Rigo told the media.
Councilor Danny Dayanghirang, weighing in on the matter, emphasized that party membership is the primary qualification for anyone seeking to fill the vacancy.
According to him, the law allows the party to recommend its chosen replacement.
“Kitty is qualified, she is a member of the party of her father and if the party recommends her, then that is valid,” Dayanghirang told Edge Davao.
Dayanghirang added that Kitty’s entry into the council could signal a renewed generational push within local leadership.
“We need younger voices in the council. Kitty is articulate, capable, and could bring surprises. The Duterte name delivers results, and she has the potential to perform,” he said.
While no final decision has been made, Kitty has emerged as one of the names to watch as HTL begins its selection process for the next city councilor.
