Vice President Sara Duterte endorsed on Monday the gubernatorial candidacy of Atty. Dan Neri Lim, boosting his chances in the upcoming May 12, 2025 elections.

Duterte also expressed support for Lim’s full slate, including vice gubernatorial candidate Engr. Gerry Garcia, second district congressional aspirant Engr. Modesto Membreve, and third district congressional bet Atty. McAldous Castañares.

In addition, she backed second district board member candidates Frans Garcia and Mimi Boniel, as well as third district contenders Elpidio Bonita, Angelita Torribio, and Rene Espinoza.

Duterte likewise endorsed Valencia mayoralty candidate Kat-kat Lim and her team, as well as re-electionist Inabanga Mayor Jono Jumamoy and Vice Mayor Roygie Jumamoy.

The vice president visited Bohol, making a stop in Panglao to meet with key allies, including former Mayor Doloreich Dumaluan. During her visit, she campaigned for the “Duterten”—a group of ten senatorial candidates, nine of whom are affiliated with the Partido Demokratiko ng Pilipinas (PDP), and one independent.

She also joined a political rally at the Cogon Gymnasium in Tagbilaran City, where she endorsed candidates under the One Bohol for Good Governance coalition.

The group proceeded to Inabanga for another campaign rally.

Duterte thanked Boholanos for their continued support for her and her family amid ongoing woes, including the detention of former President Rodrigo Duterte at The Hague in relation to his case before the International Criminal Court (ICC).

Surprise Visit Catches Supporters Off Guard

Reports emerged that some supporters were unaware of Duterte’s visit.

Businessman and known Duterte ally Norris Oculam was reportedly caught off guard by the unannounced stop.

Some local candidates were also seen scrambling to gain access to the vice president and secure her endorsement.

Duterte has been touring the Visayas in support of the PDP senatorial lineup and other allied local candidates.

In Cebu, she endorsed the Duranos and gubernatorial candidate Pam Baricuatro.

Duterte Slams Lawmakers Behind Impeachment

Duterte also criticized members of the House of Representatives who signed the resolution to impeach her last February.

She alleged that some lawmakers received favors in exchange for their signatures.

“I don’t let politicians become godparents to my children. You never know when one of them might stab you in the back,” Duterte said.

Political observers noted that this comment appeared to be directed at Bohol second district Representative Vanessa Aumentado, who had Duterte as a godmother to one of her children.

Cong. Vanvan Aumentado and Cong. Alexie Tutor, signed the impeachment resolution.