DAVAO City First District Representative Paolo “Pulong” Duterte gave a short yet telling reply to outgoing First District Councilor Nilo “Small” Abellera Jr., which could draw curiosity and speculation among kibitzers.
It can be recalled that Abellera, when he delivered his farewell speech during the final session of the 20th City Council on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, mentioned the congressman’s name.
“To Congressman Paolo ‘Pulong’ Zimmerman Duterte, while our paths may diverge, I hope you stay true in fulfilling your aspirations and desires for the betterment of Davao City, especially the first district of Davao City,” Abellera said.
He also added a short wish for Duterte that his duty to serve and commitment be achieved and “give a lasting impact to the Dabawenyos we truly love.”
Happy birthday, Small
Duterte, when asked for his comment during a chat interview with some members of the media, just replied “HAPPY BIRTHDAY SMALL”.
The reply, though seemingly cordial, could raise an eyebrow as to how he really feels with the emotional message of Abellera.
It’s a known fact that both political personalities, who were seen to be close before, have grown distant over the years amid rumors of political rifts within the city's first district.
Both were aligned under one political camp, the Hugpong sa Tawong Lungsod founded by the congressman’s father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, but Abellera was expelled for reasons he could not even tell. CEA