Ramil Madriaga, who identifies himself as the former bagman of Vice President Sara Duterte, is open to a physical confrontation with Davao City Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte — but on one condition: the mayor must come to him.
In a statement released through his lawyer, the detained Madriaga said he would “accommodate” Baste if the mayor chooses to visit him at Camp Bagong Diwa, where he is currently held. He noted, however, that a faceoff outside detention would only be possible if he is exonerated.
The exchange stems from Madriaga’s sworn affidavit, portions of which were read aloud during the House Committee on Justice hearing last Tuesday, in which he referred to Baste as “bading” — a remark he attributed to the mayor’s father, former president Rodrigo Duterte.
Baste fired back on April 14, 2026, issuing his own challenge that went beyond a one-on-one dare. The mayor called on Madriaga to also bring MMDA General Manager Nicholas Torre III and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., whom Baste described as “Bangag,” into the confrontation.
“Anytime, anywhere, just inform me and I will be there,” Baste said.
Madriaga, through counsel, stood by the attribution of the “bading” remark to the elder Duterte, maintaining that the characterization did not originate with him.
