DAVAO CITY – Davao City Mayor and Partido Demokratiko Pilipino–Lakas ng Bayan National President Sebastian Duterte called for unity and renewed push for a federal government during their National Assembly on July 25 here.
Addressing nationwide members, the PDP-Laban national president argued that federalism is vital to give local governments greater autonomy, criticizing the current government for holding excessive power.
Duterte urged leaders to focus on flood control and corruption, rather than on political moves such as the impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte, which he called a bid to weaken a 2028 presidential contender.
The mayor accused the administration of pressuring political opponents, citing the arrest of his father, former President Rodrigo Duterte—currently in The Hague, Netherlands—with actions against other political allies.
Pointing to declining Pulse Asia approval ratings for the administration and to P1 trillion in corruption-related losses, he said the public is growing tired of current governance.
Looking ahead to the 2028 elections, Duterte urged party members to stay united, stating his leadership is driven by duty to the country rather than personal ambition.
"I am only here as your instrument. I am not here for personal ambition," Duterte said as he thanked party members and officials for their trust. "I am here to make this country work."
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