Duterte Triumphs in Davao City Election from Exile in The Hague

As the Duterte legacy faces unforeseen obstacles, the unfolding midterm election hints at a dramatic future for the Philippine political realm.

Rodrigo Duterte, the former president currently detained in The Hague for his controversial drug war policies, has made a significant political comeback by being elected mayor of Davao City, according to preliminary results from the recent midterm elections. His close associates, Christopher "Bong" Go and Ronald "Bato" dela Rosa, both loyal aides, also retained their positions in the Senate, highlighting the ongoing influence of the Duterte political dynasty amid turbulent circumstances.

This midterm election has been marked by an intense rivalry between the Duterte and Marcos families, further complicated by uncertainties surrounding Vice-President Sara Duterte, who is at risk of facing impeachment. The political scene has become increasingly charged, with pro-Duterte candidates competing against supporters of President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr., who previously allied with Sara but has seen his endorsements falter in this election cycle.

Preliminary tallies show that while Duterte's faction appears to have solidified its base in the southern Philippines, Marcos Jr.'s candidates have struggled to meet expectations. The faction aligned with the sitting president has only managed to secure a limited number of victories, as independents have notably dominated the election results. The count continues as Vice-President Duterte’s political fate hangs in the balance, raising questions about her potential run for the presidency in 2028.

Despite his arrest two months ago, Duterte's influence remains strong in Davao, a city where his family has held power for decades. His youngest son, Sebastian, has been elected vice-mayor, allowing him to fulfill gubernatorial duties during Duterte's absence, while another son, Paolo, has been re-elected to Congress. The family's ability to maintain its political foothold in Davao is crucial, especially as the region continues to serve as their primary voter support hub.

The elections, taking place under challenging conditions with reports of violence and malfunctioning voting machines, are a testament to the vibrant, celebrity-focused political culture in the Philippines. This environment often eclipses other pressing societal issues such as rampant corruption and infrastructure deficiencies. As the country grapples with the implications of the election results, the tensions between dynasties represent a pivotal moment in shaping the future of Philippine governance.