DAVAO City Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte revealed that verified information confirms search warrants have been issued for the residences of his father, former President Rodrigo Duterte (FPRRD), as well as himself and his siblings—Vice President Sara Duterte and First District Representative Paolo “Pulong” Duterte. He condemned the move as an intrusion into their private spaces and questioned its intent.
While the Police Regional Office-Davao Region (PRO-Davao) has denied the claims, Baste pointed out inconsistencies in their statements regarding FPRRD. He argued that these contradictions fuel concerns about harassment and intimidation.
Baste likened the situation to Martial Law, despite no official declaration, and urged Filipinos to remain vigilant, informed, and ready to defend their rights. He called for unity in resisting the abuse of power and ensuring no Filipino is left vulnerable.
The mayor said they are doing everything possible to bring Rodrigo back to the Philippines. He emphasized that their efforts are not just for the country but for every Filipino facing poverty, injustice, and weak leadership.
“The people’s call for justice and accountability cannot be ignored. Their voices will not be silenced. We will stand together—united, resolute, and unyielding in our pursuit of truth and justice,” he said.
Vigil amid raid rumors
On the evening of March 13, Rodrigo Duterte’s supporters gathered outside his home in Doña Luisa Subdivision, Matina, Davao City, in response to rumors of a police search.
Many lit candles and prayed, while some chanted “Marcos Resign!” and wore shirts bearing the message “I Stand with FPRRD.”
Despite PRO-Davao’s denial of any planned raid, supporters vowed to stay and keep watch. PRO-Davao spokesperson PMaj. Catherine Dela Rey acknowledged their right to assemble and assured them that police personnel were stationed nearby for security.
“Ang mga ginaprovide na security sa PRO-Davao specifically sa Ecoland Police Station diha duol sa iyang balay kanunay man og wala gitangal sukad sauna (The security provided by PRO-Davao, specifically at the Ecoland Police Station near his house, has always been there and has never been removed),” she told PTV-Davao.
A neighbor of the former president voiced fears that his potential arrest could lead to a repeat of martial law.
“I am a victim of martial law also kay ayoko iparanas sa mga bata na ito, sa mga apo ko. If I will die, then I will die basta hindi lang matuloy ang mga Marcos na iyan (I am a victim of Martial Law, and I don’t want my grandchildren to experience it. If I die, then I die—as long as those Marcoses don’t return),” he said.
A lawyer representing the Duterte family, who requested anonymity, urged supporters to remain calm and respect legal procedures if a search warrant is executed.
“Muhangyo ko sa atoang tanan kung pwede inig mangabot ang police ayaw, dili natu bawalan, katungod nila ang mag serve ug processes sa gobyerno (If the police arrive, do not resist. It is their right to serve government processes),” he said.
`Evidence planting'
A reliable source from SunStar Davao, who requested anonymity for security reasons, claimed a “50-50” chance of a raid on Rodrigo Duterte’s residence.
Concerns about potential “evidence planting” were raised, with allegations that the operation could be based on a verbal order from high-ranking officials.
The presence of Duterte’s supporters, the source added, maybe a key factor in delaying the alleged mission.
`Serious concerns'
Baste stated that his father’s arrest "raises serious" concerns about due process and the rule of law. He warned that the lack of transparency and legal safeguards sets a dangerous precedent.
In his statement on March 14, 2025, Sebastian warned that the lack of transparency and disregard for legal protocols set a dangerous precedent. He questioned what protection remains for ordinary citizens if such actions can be taken against a former president.
He added that the Philippine Constitution is being tested by those meant to uphold it, with power now being used to intimidate political opponents rather than protect the people.
“Now more than ever, I will not be silenced. This is not just about the attack against my family—it is about every Filipino who values justice and fairness. This is not just a question of legal procedures—it is a grave matter of upholding the integrity of our institutions and safeguarding our nation’s sovereignty,” he said.
Arrest and probe
Rodrigo Duterte and former Philippine National Police (PNP) chief-turned-Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa are under investigation by the International Criminal Court (ICC) for alleged crimes against humanity linked to the war on drugs from November 2011 to March 2019. Duterte was arrested in Metro Manila on March 11 and taken to The Hague, Netherlands.
Baste, in a media interview on March 13, revealed that he traveled to Manila to secure a visa for the Netherlands in hopes of visiting his father.
“Gusto ko makakita sa akoang amahan samtang buhi pa siya kay ang akoang amahan tiguwang na 79 anyos mag birthday pana karun petsa 28 (I want to see my father while he is still alive. He is already 79 years old and will celebrate his birthday on the 28th),” he said.
He admitted he has no updates on his father’s condition but assured supporters that their family is prepared for the challenges ahead.
He urged them to conserve their energy, as he believes the Marcos administration will continue its efforts against them. RGP