Metro Manila, Philippines – Davao City Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte on Saturday, May 23, said the country is under what he described as martial law without formal declaration.
Duterte raised concerns over governance, constitutional limits, and political dissent.
Speaking at the “Rage Coalition para sa Mindanao” launch in Davao City, Duterte said the current political situation reflects mounting pressure on critics of the government and limits on opposition activity.
“You know tama si Mike [Defensor], this is not even a silent martial law, it is martial law without declaring it formally,” he said.
[Translation: You know Mike Defensor is right, this is not even a silent martial law—it is martial law without being formally declared.]
Duterte said the situation makes it difficult for dissenting voices to openly question government actions, suggesting that criticism of the administration is being increasingly constrained.
He also cited his father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, saying the former leader respected constitutional limits and did not seek to extend his time in office despite political discussions during his term.
A significant portion of his speech was directed at President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., whom he criticized over governance outcomes, particularly on crime and corruption.
“Anong achievement nito? Binalik yung kriminalidad, binalik yung kurapsyon,” he said.
[Translation: What achievement does he have? Crime has returned, corruption has returned…]
He further referred to Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa in relation to discussions about his possible arrest and transfer to the International Criminal Court (ICC).
“Gusto na naman nila kunin si Bato, ipadala doon sa ICC. Nalungkot ako at the same time medyo masaya rin kasi may kasama na yung tatay ko doon if ever that will happen…it’s a bad joke,” Duterte said.
[Translation: They’re again trying to get Bato, send him to the ICC. I felt sad but also a bit happy because my father would have someone with him there if ever that happens… it’s a bad joke.]
The speech concluded with a call for continued political support for Vice President Sara Duterte ahead of the 2028 elections.
