Former President Rodrigo Duterte expressed his willingness to run for mayor of Davao City in the May 2025 elections. Speaking at a news conference in Davao City on Saturday, Duterte asked the media if public opinion supported his return to the mayoralty, a position he held for over two decades before his presidency. Upon receiving positive feedback, Duterte said, “Sige, mag-mayor tayo” (Sure, let’s run for mayor).
Duterte also suggested that his son, incumbent Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte, should serve as his vice mayor if he decides to pursue the position.
Despite his popularity in surveys as a potential Senate candidate, Duterte appeared to rule out a senatorial bid, citing concerns about his age and health. The 79-year-old stated that he would not be able to endure the rigors of a national campaign, saying, “Magko-collapse lang ako niyan” (I will only collapse).
PDP president Senator Robin Padilla and Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa had both urged Duterte to run for the Senate, but the former president has indicated his focus is more local than national at this point.