VICE President Sara Duterte reminded Filipinos to vote based on a candidate’s track record and platform, rather than family name or popularity.
In a media interview on Monday, May 12, 2025, Duterte said many voters are drawn to candidates who are popular, entertaining, or humorous, often forgetting to ask about their campaign promises. She stressed that voters should look beyond personalities and focus on competence.
She also pointed out the common practice of automatically voting for members of political dynasties, saying this mindset must change. Duterte urged voters to scrutinize each candidate’s qualifications, regardless of their well-known surname.
Duterte expressed frustration over widespread vote buying, encouraging the public to report such cases. She lamented that many still support candidates who offer money in exchange for votes, making this a primary basis for electing officials.
“Hindi na ako lumayo para wala nang matamaan, dito nalang sa akin personal ang halimbawa (I didn’t bring up anyone else so that no one would feel targeted. I’ll just use myself as the example),”she said.
Duterte acknowledged that she comes from a political dynasty, giving her a unique position to speak on the issue. She clarified that her remarks were not self-directed but intended to highlight the need to end the automatic election of candidates based solely on family ties. Voters, she said, should prioritize a candidate’s capability and qualifications.
She voiced her support for anti-political dynasty legislation and stated that she would author such a bill if given the opportunity.
Members of the Duterte family continue to hold and seek public office: Sebastian “Baste” Duterte is running for vice mayor; Paolo “Pulong” Duterte for first district representative; his sons Omar and Rigo for second district representative and first district councilor, respectively. Sara currently serves as Vice President, while their father, former President Rodrigo Duterte (FPRRD), also served for years as mayor of Davao City.
Duterte also clarified that FPRRD was unaware of her endorsement of Senator Imee Marcos and Rep. Camille Villar. She explained that PDP–Laban had formed two senatorial slates, each with 12 candidates—one slate included Gringo Honasan and Ariel Querubin, while the other featured Villar and Marcos.
She noted that the party officially named Villar and Marcos as guest candidates only the previous night. Duterte emphasized that the decision was made independently by PDP–Laban, without consulting her, as she is not a member of the party. She expressed hope that it wasn’t too late and that the public would support their inclusion.
Duterte added she was unsure whether her father had been informed by his lawyers about the inclusion of Villar and Marcos. However, she expects he will find out soon, as his legal team regularly provides him with briefings.
Wearing black during the interview, Duterte said it was a symbol of what she described as a “dark chapter” in Philippine history. She reiterated her commitment to campaigning for new Senate faces and urged the public to recognize the meaning behind voting straight for PDP–Laban’s slate.
While acknowledging that the outcome is ultimately up to the voters, she expressed hope that the public gives the DuterTEN candidates a chance.
“If people aren’t satisfied, they can vote them out after six years,” she said.
Duterte concluded by emphasizing the importance of the 2025 midterm elections, calling it a critical opportunity to bring new leadership into the Senate. RGP
