6-10-2024 (DAVAO CITY) Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has announced his intention to re-enter the political arena, setting his sights on the mayoral seat of Davao City. This decision marks a significant shift from recent speculation about his potential national-level aspirations.
Duterte, who served as Davao City’s mayor for several terms before ascending to the presidency in 2016, confirmed his plans to seek the city’s top post once again. The former president also hinted at the possibility of running alongside his son, Sebastian Duterte, who currently holds the mayoral position.
The announcement comes amidst swirling rumours and contradictory statements from the Duterte camp. Vice President Sara Duterte, the former president’s daughter, had previously suggested that her father, along with Sebastian and Davao City Representative Paolo Duterte, were considering senatorial bids in the 2025 midterm elections. However, the elder Duterte swiftly dismissed these claims, insisting that his daughter’s comments were made in jest.
“What would we do in the Senate? What business do we have there?” Duterte remarked, effectively putting to rest any speculation about a potential Senate run.
The former president cited his advanced age as a primary factor in his decision to focus on local politics rather than pursuing a national campaign. This stance appears to be a departure from earlier calls for him to seek a Senate seat in the upcoming elections.
Interestingly, Duterte’s announcement is tinged with a note of reluctance. He claimed to be “not inclined” to return to politics, citing a lack of both political capital and financial resources following the conclusion of his presidential term in 2022.
