THE newly proclaimed city councilors of Davao City, a mix of neophytes and returning legislators, are set to serve Dabawenyos for the next three years. Their proclamation follows the May 2025 elections, with officials from all three districts now preparing to assume office.
Leading the First District is Rodrigo “Rigo” Duterte II, son of Paolo “Pulong” Duterte and grandson of former President Rodrigo Duterte. Rigo was the top councilor in all three districts, making him the designated acting vice mayor whenever the elected vice mayor is unavailable. Expressing both readiness and humility, he said, "I will follow their footsteps. I am ready. Medyo kulba (It's a bit nerve-wracking)," he said.
Also elected in the First District were outgoing Vice Mayor Melchor Quitain Jr., Atty. Luna Acosta, Cookie Bonguyan, Bonz Militar, Ragde Ibuyan, Temujin “Tek” Ocampo, and Pamela “Pameng” Librado.
Librado, a returning councilor known for her advocacy for delivery riders and workers, thanked the people of Davao for their trust.
"Proteksyon para sa atong mga kababainhan ug pag implement sa women's code sa Davao ug pag pag implement pod sa negosyo program para dungog nga assistant sa atoang mga kababainhan labi na tung nabiktima sa pagpangabuso (Protection for our women and the implementation of the Women’s Code in Davao, as well as the implementation of a livelihood program to provide dignified assistance to our women, especially those who have been victims of abuse)," she said.
Librado said she is open to any committee assignment but is particularly interested in chairing the Committee on Labor and Human Rights.
Ragde Ibuyan, son of former councilor Edgar Ibuyan, said his immediate focus would be to “collate, collect, and organize” city data and issues. Drawing from his experience as a chief of staff, he noted the urgency of identifying priority programs and projects that align with the Duterte administration’s goals.
"I-identify pod natu ang mga priority programs, priority projects, ang sa atoa is how we will support the Duterte administration, and we are ready to serve ug asa man ta mas kinahanglan (We will also identify the priority programs and projects; for us, it’s about how we can support the Duterte administration, and we are ready to serve wherever we are most needed)," he said.
He also underscored the need to enhance research and development and empower marginalized communities. Despite his background in finance, Ibuyan said he is open to serving wherever he is most needed.
In the Second District, the new councilors include Atty. Diosdado Mahipus, Ralph Abella, Louie John Bonguyan, Che Che Justol, Al Ryan Alejandre, Danny Dayanghirang, Nonong Cabling, and Doce Apostol.
Abella, who previously authored four ordinances in 2019, said he would revisit these measures to assess their implementation and impact.
Apostol, a veteran barangay chairman, said his top agenda is to develop livelihood programs for various sectoral groups, drawing on his grassroots leadership experience.
Third District councilors include Alberto Ungab, Doc Enzo Villafuerte, Atty. Bai Hundra Cassandra Dominique Advincula, Petite Principe, Rachel Zozobrado, Doc Potpot Villafuerte, Jopet Baluran, and Myrna Dalodo-Ortiz.
Advincula, a returning councilor, said she is working with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (Tesda) to establish training centers to help reduce underemployment and unemployment in the city. She expressed openness to leading any committee and emphasized the need for continued learning and collaboration.
Despite most councilors being part of the same political party, Advincula assured that council sessions will be marked by active dialogue and critical discussion.
"Miskag sauna pa dili man pasabot nga yes lang tayo tanan, colleagues naman debate on matters especially kung tan-awon nila na naay kailangan ayuson, it does not presuppose na ano na dayun, wala nay mahitabo discussion (Even before, it didn’t mean we all just said yes. We’re colleagues, and we debate, especially when we see areas for improvement. Discussion is still essential)," she said.
The newly elected councilors will assume office on June 30, 2025, and are expected to bring a mix of fresh perspectives and legislative experience to the city government. RGP
