The Duterte family continues to dominate Davao City’s political scene, as reflected in the latest 2025 election survey conducted by the University of Mindanao-Institute of Popular Opinion (UM-IPO). The survey, conducted from January 8 to 28, 2025, gathered responses from 2,582 registered voters across all three districts, showing a strong preference for Duterte-backed candidates.
Former President Rodrigo Duterte is the frontrunner for the mayoral race, securing 60% of voter support, while his son, incumbent Vice Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte, leads the vice mayoral race with 55.7%. Their closest opponents, Karlo Nograles and Bernie Al-ag, trail significantly at 10% and 14%, respectively. However, nearly 30% of voters remain undecided.
For congressional seats, first district Representative Paolo Duterte holds a commanding lead with 54.8%, far ahead of his opponent, PBA Party-list Representative Margarita “Migs” Nograles, who has 16.1%. In the second district, Omar Duterte leads with 41.8%, followed by Javi Campos at 23.4%. Meanwhile, in the third district, Isidro Ungab is ahead with 39.6%, while Nonoy Al-ag follows at 23.2%.
The survey also identified leading candidates for the city council. In the first district, Rodrigo “Rigo” Duterte II, J. Melchor Quitain Jr., and Jessica “Cookie” Bonguyan are among the top choices. The second district’s front-runners include Danilo “Danny” Dayanghirang, Al Ryan Alejandre, and Jonard Dayap, while in the third district, Atty. Bai Hundra Cassandra “Sweet” Advincula and Myrna Dalodo-Ortiz lead the rankings.
Despite the Duterte family’s stronghold, UM-IPO noted that the large number of undecided voters indicates the need for candidates to clarify their platforms. “These undecided voters may be waiting to understand where candidates will focus their efforts if elected,” the institute stated.
Local voters continue to express confidence in the Duterte family’s leadership. Honee B. Carballo, a resident of Catalunan Grande, credits their governance for Davao City’s progress. “No matter the criticism, their accomplishments speak for themselves, which is why they still have strong support,” she said.
Similarly, Neil John Ang, a respiratory therapist from Talomo Proper, believes the Dutertes’ long-standing service has earned them trust. “Their record of leadership makes them a strong choice, but voters should still assess candidates based on their plans, not just their affiliations,” he said.
As the 2025 elections approach, five members of the Duterte family are running for key positions: Rodrigo Duterte for mayor, Sebastian Duterte for vice mayor, Paolo Duterte for first district representative, Omar Duterte for second district representative, and Rigo Duterte for first district councilor.
