Sebastian “Baste” Duterte was formally sworn in as the new mayor of Davao City on Friday, officially assuming the role that was previously held by his father, former President Rody Duterte, who remains detained in The Hague.
Baste Duterte was elected vice mayor in the midterm elections the previous year, alongside his father, who won the mayoral race, and his nephew, Rodrigo II, who secured the top spot for city councilor.
However, due to his father’s ongoing detention as he faces trial at the International Criminal Court on charges of crimes against humanity, Rodrigo Duterte was unable to assume office on June 30, 2025, and this situation led to Baste stepping into the mayoral role.
During the same ceremony, Rodrigo II was sworn in as vice mayor, a position that had been vacated by his uncle.
Regional Trial Court XI Deputy Executive Judge Marie Estrellita S. Tolentino-Rojas administered the oaths of office for both Baste and Rodrigo II.
The ceremony, which took place at City Hall, was attended by close family members, as well as key Duterte allies, including Davao City Representative Isidro Ungab and lawyer Martin Delgra.
