The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has directed Davao City Vice Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte to assume the position of acting mayor of Davao City in the absence of his father, former President Duterte.
In a statement, the DILG cited Section 46(a) of the Local Government Code, which mandates that in cases of temporary incapacity — whether physical or legal — the vice mayor shall automatically perform the duties and exercise the powers of the mayor.
“You are hereby enjoined to perform the duties and functions of Mayor of Davao City to prevent paralysis of government operations,” DILG Secretary Juanito Victor “Jonvic” Remulla said in a letter dated June 30.
Earlier, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) confirmed the proclamation of the elder Duterte as Davao City mayor despite his absence, citing the prevailing legal issues that hinder his assumption of office.
In response, the DILG moved to uphold uninterrupted service delivery and local governance in one of the country’s key cities.
The DILG also designated first ranked Sangguniang Panlungsod member Rodrigo Duterte II as acting vice mayor.
“This is pursuant to Administrative Order No. 15, series of 2018, which lays down rules on the temporary filling of vacancies in local elective offices,’’ the DILG explained.
Remulla pointed out that the action is both legal and necessary to ensure continuity of leadership in Davao City amid ongoing legal proceedings involving the former President before the International Criminal Court (ICC). (Chito Chavez)
