At a large gathering of supporters of former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, he appealed to the crowd not to abandon the Duterte family, saying, “We have not done you any wrong.”
“My dear people of Davao City, l am very thankful to all of you. It is here where l started my political career. Your support extended even to my children: Sebastian, Inday (Sara), and Pulong (Paolo),” Duterte, speaking in Bisaya, said.
Daughter of former President Duterte and current Vice President Sara Duterte is now facing three impeachment complaints amid a House of Representatives investigation into her alleged misuse of confidential funds. The young but highly influential Sara Duterte made headlines when she threatened the lives of Philippine leaders.
In his speech, Duterte reflected on his years of public service in various political roles, aside from his presidency. He believes his leadership helped transform Davao into a better city.
“In my years as mayor, vice mayor, congressman, and then President, I have never forgotten your interests. (As President), the grandest that l have given you could be the (Davao City) coastal (bypass) road. Don’t abandon the Dutertes because the Dutertes had never forsaken you,” he said.
The Duterte family has led Davao City since 1988, with the exception of 1998 to 2001.
Duterte also reminded the crowd that he is running for mayor alongside Sebastian Duterte. He strategically emphasized that, if both were to win and something happened to him, a Duterte would still be in charge of the city by default.
