Rappler Talk: Bernie Al-ag on challenging Baste Duterte for vice mayor

DAVAO CITY, Philippines – The Dutertes remain powerful and influential especially in Davao City, but they are not left unchallenged in the 2025 midterm polls.

Among those who are up against a Duterte is former Davao City vice mayor Bernie Al-ag, who’s running against incumbent mayor Sebastian Duterte for the city’s second highest post.

An optometrist by profession, Al-ag served as city councilor for multiple terms. In 2017, he became the vice mayor after the then-vice mayor Paolo Duterte resigned amid a pile of controversies he faced.

The Al-ags were Dutertes’ long-time allies but the former vice mayor chose to face Sebastian in the race following his expulsion from the Duterte-led Hugpong sa Tawong Lungsod.

Al-ag is also in a coalition with the Nograleses and Garcias — also Dutertes’ former allies — who are now challenging the dynasty in different local races.

In this episode of Rappler Talk, reporter Jairo Bolledo sits down with Al-ag to discuss the Davao City official’s take on the Dutertes’ leadership style and issues that need immediate solution.

Watch the episode at 8 pm, on Friday, May 9. – Rappler.com