CONTINUING a long-standing tradition started by former President Rodrigo R. Duterte, the Office of First District Representative Paolo Z. Duterte distributed food packs, cash assistance, and burgers to cemetery visitors, caretakers, and workers during the observance of All Souls’ Day on Sunday, Nov. 2.
Truckloads of orange food packs arrived early in the morning at the Roman Catholic Cemetery, where the distribution was held around the resting place of the late Vicente Duterte, the former President’s father. The outreach extended to nearby cemeteries and surrounding communities where thousands of Davaoeños gathered to honor their departed loved ones.
According to organizers, the Duterte office distributed food packs and cash to caretakers, employees, and visiting families, while children in and around the cemetery received free burgers from the team — a gesture that has become a much-awaited part of the annual Kalag-Kalag celebration.
Barangay Captain James Abadilla shared that the yearly initiative continues to bring joy to the community.
“Basta Kalag-Kalag diri sa amo, murag dagsa gyud ang tao kay tinuig ni nga panghatag. Lipay kaayo akong mga constituent. Kaniadto, naa gyud na si PRRD mag-gift giving,” Abadilla said.
For Rowena Abay, a long-time cemetery caretaker, the Duterte family’s gesture has always been something they always look forward to.
“Tinuig mana ilang pahalipay panahon sa Kalag-Kalag, mao na mag-atang mi. Makamingaw lang kay wala si Tatay Digong karong tuiga,” she shared.
The Office of Congressman Paolo Duterte worked with local volunteers and barangay personnel to continue the tradition of extending kindness, solidarity, and remembrance. Aside from food and cash assistance, the team also provided water and ensured the orderly distribution of goods to the thousands who flocked to the cemetery grounds.
