Despite various issues that marred the election process, including delayed precinct openings, reports of attempted vote-buying, and questionable voter list transfers, the voice of the people prevailed. No Marcos-supported candidate managed to secure a seat in Davao City, sending a clear message that the electorate did not allow themselves to be swayed by ayuda or moneyed interests.
Former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte made a political comeback and was proclaimed Mayor of Davao City, winning by a landslide with 662,630 votes against Karlo Nograles, who garnered only 80,852 votes.
Meanwhile, his son, incumbent Mayor Sebastian "Baste" Duterte, won as Vice Mayor of Davao City with 651,356 votes, defeating Bernie Al-ag, who received 78,893 votes.
In the congressional races:
* First District: Paolo Duterte defended his seat with 203,557 votes, defeating Migs Nograles, who got 49,186 votes.
* Second District: Omar Vincent S. Duterte, Punong Barangay of Buhangin, secured a win with 160,432 votes, toppling Javi Garcia, who managed only 90,156 votes.
* Third District: Hugpong sa Tawong Lungsod’s bet Congressman Isidro Ungab won convincingly with 178,721 votes, beating Nonoy Al-ag who received 30,687 votes.
All 8 councilors in each of Davao City’s three districts also came from Hugpong sa Tawong Lungsod, completing the party’s dominance in the Sangguniang Panlungsod.
The victory is being hailed as not just a political win, but a symbolic rejection of national forces attempting to infiltrate local governance. The people of Davao have spoken, and their vote was for continuity, integrity, and local leadership anchored in genuine public service.
Dabawenyos didn’t allow themselves to be bought. This is a statement that leadership can’t be purchased; it has to be earned.
As the new set of Hugpong leaders prepares to serve, the people of Davao City remain hopeful that the city will stay resilient, independent, and true to its identity.
Facebook Conversations