Tensions are reportedly heating up within the Duterte circle as Senator Bong Go faces a major political challenge, with rumors swirling that Davao City Mayor Baste Duterte is furious over an undisclosed move allegedly linked to Go’s recent public statements and political positioning.

Adding fuel to the fire, former Presidential Spokesperson Atty. Salvador Panelo has allegedly taken a swipe at Bong Go in a recent media appearance, delivering what many netizens described as a “veiled attack” laced with frustration and sarcasm.

“Some people should remember who made them who they are today — and not forget where loyalty begins and ends,” Panelo said cryptically, though he did not directly mention Bong Go’s name.

What Sparked the Drama?

Sources close to the Duterte camp suggest that the tension began after Bong Go allegedly distanced himself from recent controversies involving former President Rodrigo Duterte, possibly in an attempt to maintain a neutral image under the current Marcos administration.

This move is said to have upset key Duterte allies, including Mayor Baste, who reportedly feels betrayed by Go’s silence and perceived lack of support.

“You don’t just disappear when things get tough,” a source quoted someone from the Duterte side as saying.

Panelo’s Public “Banat”

Atty. Panelo, known for his loyalty to the Duterte family, didn’t hold back when asked about the ongoing friction. While careful not to name names, he dropped phrases like:

“Loyalty is tested when storms come — not when the sun is out.”
“Those who owe their rise to the Dutertes should not pretend to forget.”

Many interpreted this as a clear “banat” or jab aimed directly at Bong Go, whose political career skyrocketed under the Duterte administration.

Public Reactions: Division and Speculation

Social media users quickly took sides, with hashtags like #LoyaltyCheck, #BongGoChallenge, and #DuterteCampDivide trending across platforms.

“Mayor Baste angry? Panelo firing shots? Something BIG is going down,” one netizen posted.
“If Bong Go is pulling away from the Dutertes, 2025 is going to get ugly,” another commented.

What’s Next for Bong Go?

As of this writing, Senator Bong Go has not publicly responded to the rumors, nor addressed the remarks made by Atty. Panelo. However, political observers note that this tension could mark a significant shift in alliances ahead of the 2025 midterm elections.

Will Bong Go reaffirm his loyalty to the Duterte legacy — or is he paving his own path?