SEBASTIAN “Baste” Duterte, the newly elected Vice Mayor of Davao City, has assumed the acting presidency of the Partido Demokratiko Pilipino-Lakas ng Bayan (PDP Laban).
This follows Senator Robin Padilla’s decision to step down as party president after leading the party’s campaign efforts in the recently concluded May 2025 elections.
In a letter to Party Vice Chairman Alfonso Cusi, Padilla cited his intention to focus on his senatorial duties and the party’s legislative agenda in the upcoming 20th Congress as the reason for his leave. Duterte’s appointment as acting party head marks a significant shift in the party’s leadership.
Padilla’s departure and Duterte’s ascension create a dynamic change in the PDP Laban’s leadership structure.
While Padilla’s focus shifts to his legislative responsibilities, Duterte, with his newly elected position in Davao City, now takes on the responsibility of leading the party.
The transition period will likely be a time of adjustment and strategic planning for the party as it navigates the political landscape and prepares for future elections. The party’s future direction and the extent of Duterte’s involvement in shaping its political strategies remain to be seen.
metrosundaily
