Sebastian “Baste” Duterte on Friday took his oath as Davao City mayor, formally and permanently assuming the post previously held by his father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, who remains detained in The Hague.
Baste Duterte was elected vice mayor in last year’s midterm elections, running alongside his father and his nephew, Rodrigo Duterte II, who topped the race for city councilor.
However, at noon on June 30, 2025, the elder Duterte was unable to assume office due to his continued detention while awaiting trial before the International Criminal Court on charges of crimes against humanity, prompting his son to take over the mayoralty.
Rodrigo Duterte II took his oath as vice mayor, filling the position vacated permanently by his uncle.
The oaths of office were administered by Regional Trial Court Branch XI Deputy Executive Judge Marie Estrellita S. Tolentino-Rojas.
The ceremony at Davao City Hall was attended by a few family members and Duterte allies, including Davao City Rep. Isidro Ungab and lawyer Martin Delgra.
