Young President Rodrigo Roa Duterte and His Family

Early Life and Roots in the Visayas

Rodrigo Roa Duterte was born in Maasin, Leyte—now part of Southern Leyte—into a family deeply involved in public service. His father, Vicente Duterte, would later become governor of the undivided Davao Province, a role that brought the family to Mindanao during Rodrigo’s early childhood. This move to Davao would shape his formative years and set the foundation for his future political journey.

Education and Formation of a Public Servant

Duterte pursued higher education in Manila, where he studied political science at the Lyceum of the Philippines University, graduating in 1968. Determined to follow a path in law and public governance, he went on to obtain his law degree from San Beda College of Law in 1972. After passing the bar exam, he entered public service as a lawyer and later became a prosecutor in Davao City.

Rise to Local Leadership After the People Power Revolution

The 1986 People Power Revolution marked a turning point not only for the country but also for Duterte’s political career. In the wake of the transition, he was appointed vice mayor of Davao City. His leadership style—direct, pragmatic, and intensely focused on public order—quickly set him apart. He later assumed the mayoralty, beginning what would become one of the longest and most notable tenures in local governance.

Transforming Davao City

Over seven terms and more than 22 years as mayor, Duterte presided over the transformation of Davao from a city once plagued by crime and instability into one frequently cited for its improved safety, discipline, and economic vitality. Under his administration, Davao positioned itself as a more peaceful and investor-friendly metropolis, earning recognition both locally and internationally for its rapid development and strict security measures.

Legacy and Family Influence

Throughout his public life, Duterte often highlighted the influence of his family—particularly his father’s example of public service. The Dutertes remain a prominent political family in both Davao and national politics, with several members continuing to serve in various elective positions.