Amber Phillips
Updated on: October 16, 2024 10:51 am GMT
On October 2, 2024, Rodrigo “Rigo” Duterte II, the grandson of former President Rodrigo Duterte, took his first major step into politics by filing his certificate of candidacy (CoC) to run for councilor of Davao City. This announcement marks a significant moment for the Duterte political legacy as Rigo is the first member of the family to declare candidacy for the 2025 Philippine elections.
Rigo Duterte Joins the Race
Rigo arrived at the Commission on Elections (Comelec) office in Davao City at 10:08 a.m. and was accompanied by several family members, including his father, Paolo Duterte, and his brother, Omar. As the second son of Paolo Duterte, Rigo is eager to continue his family’s political influence in the region. He is running under the banner of Hugpong sa Tawong Lungsod (HTL), a local political party.
Currently serving as his father’s chief of staff, Rigo emphasized his readiness to serve the community. Although he did not disclose specific platforms at the candidacy filing, the support from key family members indicates solid backing for his political journey.
Incumbent Officials Join the Candidacy Filings
As Rigo enters the race, he is part of a larger trend seen across the Philippines as reelectionists fill local Comelec offices. In the Visayas, several incumbent officials have also filed their candidacies, including:
- Eastern Samar Governor Ben Evardone – seeking a third consecutive term.
- Leyte 4th District Representative Richard Gomez – filing for reelection along with his wife, Ormoc City Mayor Lucy Torres Gomez.
- Zambales Governor Hermogenes Ebdane Jr. – aiming for a third term under the Sulong Zambales party.
These filings reflect a strong commitment by incumbents to maintain their positions. Jovencio Balanquit, assistant director of the Comelec in the National Capital Region, reported that only eight individuals filed for district representative on October 2, bringing the total to 21 within the first two days of the filing period. More candidates are expected to come forward before the deadline on October 8.
The Duterte Political Dynasty
Rigo Duterte’s candidacy adds to the traditional significance of the Duterte family in Davao City and beyond. His grandfather, Rodrigo Duterte, has been a pivotal political figure in the Philippines, and Rigo’s entry into politics marks a new chapter in the family’s involvement. Still, many in the family, including Paolo and the rest of Rigo’s siblings, have not publicly shared their own election plans.
Rigo’s elder brother, Omar, is also involved in local governance, having run uncontested last year as the barangay captain of Buhangin. This family’s continued presence in politics showcases a deep-rooted connection to public service in their community.
Future Election Landscape
As candidates like Rigo Duterte emerge, it raises questions about the direction of local governance and the impact of political legacies in the Philippines. With fewer new faces filing candidacies compared to incumbents, the upcoming elections may have a familiar feel. However, Rigo’s youth and fresh perspective could energize voters looking for change.
As we move closer to the elections, residents will look forward to hearing more about Rigo’s platforms and visions for Davao City. His family name carries weight, and many will be eager to see how he plans to navigate the complexities of local governance.
What Comes Next?
The filing of candidacy is only the beginning of the electoral journey. Rigo, along with other candidates, will need to engage with the community, define their platforms, and campaign vigorously to earn public support. With the Comelec preparing for the upcoming elections, the political atmosphere will only intensify in the coming months.
As of now, it remains to be seen how well the younger generation of the Duterte family will perform in the political arena, especially with a backdrop of established political figures vying for the same positions. Rigo Duterte’s bid for councilor could reshape the dynamics of local politics in Davao City.
Davao City and the rest of the Philippines are getting ready for an exciting election season with many candidates joining the race.
