DAVAO CITY (MindaNews / 24 July) — Davao City Mayor Sebastian “Baste” Duterte openly expressed his desire to punch a “monkey,” a clear jab at Philippine National Police chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III. However, he set a condition before agreeing to a fight: he demanded that Torre convince President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to mandate hair follicle drug tests for all elected officials.
In a video message posted on Facebook, Duterte questioned Torre’s charity boxing match proposal, asking, “For a long while, I’ve really been wanting to beat up a monkey. If you just really want a fistfight, why the need to do it for charity?” He insisted that if Torre wanted the event, Marcos must first order drug tests for officials.
The Dutertes have repeatedly challenged Marcos to undergo drug testing, with former President Rodrigo Duterte accusing him of being “bangag” (high on drugs) and a “drug addict.” Marcos dismissed the claims, suggesting Rodrigo Duterte’s long-term fentanyl use may have affected him.
Meanwhile, Torre confirmed preparations for the match at Rizal Memorial Coliseum, stating sponsors were ready to donate relief goods regardless of Duterte’s participation. He emphasized the event’s charitable purpose, saying, “Whether he is serious or not, let’s put this to better use.” (Ian Carl Espinosa / MindaNews)
