MAYOR Sebastian Duterte on Monday, May 12, said election day is the defining moment for Davaoeños, especially to see the direction and what will happen to the city.
In an ambush interview with the media after casting his vote at Catigan Elementary School, he said, “Today will be a defining moment for Davaoeños, especially to see the direction and what will happen to the city. We’ve done all our work, not just me, but the entire political party, Hugpong sa Tawong Lungsod.”
“So, we’ll just put our faith in our efforts and see what the outcome of this election will be,” Duterte said.
When asked about his voting experience, he said, “It was okay. I checked the receipt, and there were no anomalies. There was just one person crying there, which was their own fault because they didn’t do things properly. So far, the complaints are mainly on social media, but they’re not yet verified. We’ll have to see after the election if anyone files a complaint. I think that’s when the elections will truly speak for themselves, showing the people’s choice.”
When asked about his message to the people still voting, he said, “Those who are still hesitant, you need to go out and vote, regardless of who you’re voting for—whether it’s for us or not. It’s very important that we express our right to vote because the results will determine the direction of our city. So, active participation from the people is crucial, especially since we’re talking about the future.”
Regarding campaign posters scattered around the city, he said, “I think the day before the elections, we should have cleaned everything up. It looks dirty; many people didn’t follow the rules and guidelines on where to put their tarpaulins. We don’t want a mess, and since people have already chosen, we should move on and continue with our lives.”
“It’s better to clean up immediately and go back to normal,” he said.
When asked about what to expect if the Duterte-Duterte tandem wins, he said, “The only argument right now is the disqualification case. A day or two after the illegal arrest of PRRD, the Comelec released a statement saying PRRD is not disqualified. So, from there, we’ll probably just wait for the results because that’s the best way to see, and then we’ll see what the Comelec will do in this case.”
He is running for vice mayor, while his father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, is running for mayor of the city.
The mayor arrives at Catigan Elementary School to cast his vote at approximately 1:10 p.m. today, May 12, 2025.
Photos courtesy of Rhoda Grace B Saron
