MAYOR Sebastian “Baste” Duterte emphasized that the collective effort and discipline of Davaoeños are what kept the city thriving in the face of countless challenges.
In his speech during the Parada Dabawenyo on Saturday, March 28, Duterte did not fail to mention his father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, describing him as a “local hero.”
“Daghan ta ug giagian. Ang atong local hero na si former President Rodrigo Duterte ilang gihilabtan, karon unsay nahitabo sa atoa, nagtuo sila ug muhinay ta, nagtuo sila ug maluya ta, pero tan-awa kung asa ta karon, samot tang nikusgan kay ila tang gisuwayan,” Duterte told parade goers.
“Kitang mga Dabawenyo maisug ta, kung kita gani itulak sa corner, imong ipiton wala tay lain himuon, dili man ta hilabtanon pero kung inyo ming suwayan, makatilaw gyud mo ug sukol sa inyong kinabuhi nga wala pa ninyo makit-i sukad sukad natawo mo,” he added.
Duterte called on every Davaoeño to support one another to persevere, saying that progress is not a race. He said a united society is rooted in discipline, education, and faith.
The mayor reminded Davaoeños to comply with existing ordinances, including liquor bans, anti-smoking regulations, curfews, and speed limits to ensure public order and safety. He said governance is a shared responsibility between citizens and the government.
Duterte also emphasized that the active participation of the youth will further elevate the city to new heights, so communities bear the huge burden of empowering their children to become more socially aware.
“Walay prebilihiyo para sa pipila, walay padrino. Kung unsa ang nasulat sa balaod, maoy masunod ug ipatuman bisan kinsa ka man. Dinhi sa Davao City, ang balaod saktong masunod. Ang hustisya kinahanglan mabati sa tanan,” he said.
He said the administration will continue to promote a “culture of security” to secure peace and order, and to continue the war against drugs and criminality. He also condemns discrimination against religions, tribes, and social classes.
Duterte ended his speech by promoting his sister’s presidential bid, “Akong pilion nga presidente karong 2028, si Inday Sara Duterte.”
This year’s Parada Dabawenyo featured 50 marching bands and more than 400 parading contingents, with around 35,000 participants.
