Duterte Dynasty: Davao City, Politics & Family [News & Updates]

Emily Hansen 17 May 2025

Does the legacy of a political dynasty extend beyond policy and governance? Absolutely, and in the Philippines, the Duterte name continues to resonate, particularly in Davao City, where the youngest son of former President Rodrigo Duterte, Sebastian "Baste" Duterte, currently serves as mayor.

The political landscape in the Philippines is often shaped by familial ties and regional strongholds. In Davao City, the Duterte family has maintained a prominent presence for decades. Following in the footsteps of his father, Rodrigo, and sister, Sara, Sebastian Duterte has embraced public service, carving out his own path while navigating the complexities of Philippine politics.

Category	Information
Full Name	Sebastian "Baste" Zimmerman Duterte
Birth Date	November 3, 1987
Place of Birth	Davao City, Philippines (Unconfirmed)
Age (as of November 2024)	37 years old
Father	Rodrigo Roa Duterte (Former President of the Philippines)
Mother	Elizabeth Zimmerman (Former Wife of Rodrigo Duterte)
Siblings	Paolo Duterte (Politician) Sara Duterte (Vice President of the Philippines)
Education	Details about his education are not widely available, further research may be needed.
Political Party	Hugpong ng Pagbabago (HNP)
Current Position	Mayor of Davao City (since June 30, 2022)
Previous Positions	Vice Mayor of Davao City (2019-2022)
Net Worth (Estimate)	Information on Sebastian Duterte's personal net worth is not publicly accessible. Estimates related to Rodrigo Duterte's net worth should not be attributed to Sebastian Duterte.
Personal Life	Details about his personal life are generally kept private.
Official Website/Source	Davao City Official Website

Sebastian Duterte's political career began with his election as Vice Mayor of Davao City, serving from 2019 to 2022. This role provided him with valuable experience in local governance and prepared him for his subsequent run for the mayoralty. He assumed the office of Mayor on June 30, 2022, continuing the Duterte family's hold on the city's highest position.

His tenure as mayor has not been without its challenges. Like his father, Sebastian Duterte has faced scrutiny and criticism, particularly concerning his policies and public statements. The political climate in the Philippines remains highly polarized, and the Duterte family continues to be a subject of intense debate and discussion.

Recently, Davao City Mayor Sebastian Duterte openly criticized President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s administration. This public rebuke highlights the evolving dynamics within the Philippine political landscape and the potential for shifting alliances. The specific reasons behind Duterte's criticism, reportedly voiced on Tuesday, March 11, likely stem from policy disagreements or perceived slights.

One point of contention appears to be the International Criminal Court's (ICC) investigation into alleged crimes against humanity committed during the elder Duterte's term as president. Sebastian Duterte has vehemently defended his father and condemned the ICC's involvement, viewing it as an infringement on Philippine sovereignty. The issue remains a sensitive one, dividing public opinion and fueling political tensions.

Adding fuel to the fire, Rodrigo Duterte's estimated net worth has become a subject of public discussion. While figures vary, some reports suggest a net worth of around $550,000 USD (approximately 28.5 million PHP) in 2025. Despite holding prominent government positions, including president and mayor, Duterte's financial disclosure indicates a relatively modest fortune compared to other world leaders. This has sparked debate about transparency and the accumulation of wealth in public office.

Sebastian Duterte, often referred to as "Baste," was born on November 3, 1987. As the youngest son of Rodrigo Duterte and Elizabeth Zimmerman, he has grown up in the public eye. Prior to entering politics, he reportedly pursued business ventures, demonstrating an entrepreneurial spirit. However, the call to public service ultimately led him to follow in his family's footsteps.

His sister, Sara Duterte, has also achieved significant political success, currently serving as the Vice President of the Philippines. Her career path began with her attending San Pedro College, where she majored in respiratory therapy, graduating in 1999. Interestingly, in her inaugural speech as mayor of Davao City, Sara Duterte revealed her initial aspiration to become a pediatrician, highlighting the diverse paths individuals take into the realm of politics.

The Duterte family's political influence extends beyond the mayoralty and vice presidency. Reports suggest that former President Rodrigo Duterte, along with his sons, Davao City Mayor Sebastian "Baste" Duterte and Davao City 1st District Representative Paolo Duterte, may consider running for Senate seats in the 2025 midterm elections. Such a move would further solidify the family's presence in Philippine politics and potentially reshape the balance of power.

The family's impact has even extended into the scientific realm. A new species of plant, Hoya indaysarae, was named after Sara Duterte, [290] [291] demonstrating the far-reaching influence of the Duterte name.

In past elections, Sebastian Duterte ran for city mayor under the Hugpong ng Pagbabago (HNP) party. His ballot number was 1, with his name appearing as "Duterte, Baste (HNP)." His campaign focused on continuing the policies and programs implemented by his predecessors, emphasizing peace and order, economic development, and social welfare.

Prior to Sebastian's mayorship, Paolo Duterte held positions in Davao City government. Paolo Z. served from June 30, 2013 to June 30, 2016, followed by a period from June 30, 2016 to January 5, 2018, and then Bernard E. from January 5, 2018 to June 30, 2019. The current vice mayor, Jesus, has been in office since June 30, 2022.

While Sara Duterte currently serves as the Vice President of the Philippines and was formerly the DepEd Secretary, there have been reports and speculation regarding her potential resignation from the latter position. However, as of now, these remain unconfirmed.

The Duterte siblings, Paolo, Sara, and Sebastian, represent diverse paths and contributions to Philippine society. While Paolo and Sara pursued careers in politics, Sebastian initially ventured into the business world. However, their shared heritage and the political climate of the Philippines have shaped their individual trajectories.

Details about Sebastian Duterte's height and other personal attributes are not readily available in public sources. Focus remains primarily on his political career and public service.

The political saga of the Duterte family is far from over. As Sebastian Duterte continues his term as mayor of Davao City and other family members contemplate future political endeavors, their influence on the Philippines remains undeniable. The coming years will undoubtedly reveal the next chapter in this ongoing narrative, shaping the political landscape and sparking continued debate.