Baste Duterte takes over PDP Laban, leads new political coalition

National

DAVAO City Mayor Sebastian Duterte officially took his oath as president of the Partido Demokratikong Pilipino–Lakas ng Bayan (PDP Laban), succeeding his father, former president Rodrigo Duterte, who is currently detained at the International Criminal Court facility in The Hague.

The oath was administered by PDP Laban vice chairman Alfonso Cusi.

Per a Philstar report, also present during the event last Saturday, April 11, were Senator Christopher Lawrence Go, former Department of Budget and Management secretary Wendel Avisado, and lawyer Raul Lambino.

The political party is expected to support the possible presidential bid of Vice President Sara Duterte in the 2028 national elections.

Meanwhile, Duterte was also designated to lead the Reform Alliance for Good Governance and Accountability (RAGE) Coalition, which was launched in San Juan. The coalition, composed of groups such as PDP Laban, Partido Reporma, and Reform PH, described itself as a “united front” that aims to “push for accountability, defend democratic processes and address urgent national concerns.”

In his message, Duterte emphasized unity among members, saying, “We have to communicate with each other as a united front moving in positivism and service for the people. Always remember that whatever happens I am always here for you, Mayor Baste Duterte of Davao City.”

The coalition also claimed support from more than 600 groups nationwide, representing sectoral organizations, regional alliances, advocacy groups, and community-based movements.

Among those who signed the RAGE manifesto were Senator Christopher Lawrence Go, former House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez, former congressman Mike Defensor, and former executive secretary Victor Rodriguez. (Samantha Faye Alcoma, CTU-TC BAEL-ELSD Intern)