PRESIDENTIAL son Sebastian "Baste" Duterte, who has been elected vice mayor of Davao City, will preside over his first regular session of the City Council Tuesday, July 2.
Baste, along with his older siblings Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio and First District Representative Paolo "Pulong" Duterte, two other congressmen and 24 councilors officially started their three-year term last Sunday, June 30.
This is the younger Duterte's first political position.
Baste, in his speech, said that he is ready to serve the public despite being a neophyte in government service.
“I come here armed with my fervent desire to serve. The challenges that lie ahead will be difficult. I may be new in government service, but I trust that this desire will be the impetus from where my impact to the city and its people will come about,” he said during his oath taking rite last June 21.
He also said he will be helping his siblings and the legislative sector in passing ordinances and resolutions that will benefit the Dabawenyos.
Baste, prior to winning as vice mayor, said he already prepared himself for the task.
“Nagatuon ko, nagabasa ko’g libro, naga-seminar pod ko. Daghan man ang gatabang unya nagapangutana pod ko sa akoang mga igsuon on what to expect (I'm continuously learning. I'm reading books and attending seminars. There are a lot of people who are extending help to me. Also, I seek advice from my elder siblings on what to expect),” he said in an interview with RMN DXDC.
He also said that among the issues he will be focusing are the environment and traffic.
Councilor Bonifacio Militar, in a previous report, said he is willing to give advice, not only to Baste, but also to other new councilors.
Former vice mayor Bernard Al-ag has also pledged to help the new vice mayor, at the same time wished for his successful leadership.