THE HAGUE, Netherlands — A Filipino Catholic priest based in the Netherlands is urging Filipinos, both at home and abroad, to stay united and level-headed as tensions rise over former President Rodrigo Duterte’s case before the International Criminal Court (ICC).
“Think Clearly, Don’t Be Swayed by Emotions”
After celebrating a weekend Mass for the Filipino Catholic community in The Hague, the priest—who requested to remain anonymous—shared his thoughts on the growing divide among Filipinos over Duterte’s ICC case.
“Mag-isip nang mabuti, be critical. Huwag masyado magpadala sa feelings, especially sa politics.”
(Think clearly, be critical. Do not let emotions take over, especially in politics.)
The priest emphasized that the Church stands for love, unity, justice, and peace—and warned against allowing anger and division to take over.
“Kung ipagpatuloy ninyo madala sila ng kalaban—I mean, the devil—walang mangyayari.”
(If people continue to be led by the enemy—whether political or spiritual—nothing good will come out of it.”)
Pressure to Take a Stand
Since Duterte’s arrest, the priest has been bombarded with messages and phone calls, with some pressuring him to take sides.
“[Marami nang] dumating sa akin na mga mensahe, mga call na ini-impose ‘yung mga opinions nila.”
(I’ve received many messages and calls where people try to impose their opinions on me.”)
However, he remains firm: “I am for the Church. I am for the Lord. I am for unity.”
Why Do Some Filipinos Still Support Duterte?
Dutch locals have asked the priest why some Filipinos continue to stand by Duterte despite accusations of crimes against humanity linked to his war on drugs.
Instead of engaging in political debates, the priest chooses to highlight the importance of due process and a fair trial.
“May proseso kasi ito. Kaya narito si former President Duterte para litisin at mabigyan ng justice ang mga biktima ng drug war.”
(There is a legal process. That is why former President Duterte is here—to stand trial and ensure justice for the victims of the drug war.”)
He also reminded people that politicians come and go, but faith and community relationships should remain strong and intact.
Lenten Reflection: Politics vs. Friendships
The priest expressed sadness over how political disagreements are tearing families and friendships apart.
“May mga nag-aaway na sa social media, nag-a-unfriend sa Facebook. Sayang ‘yung friendship.”
(People are fighting on social media, unfriending each other over politics. It’s sad to lose friendships this way.”)
He encouraged everyone to use this Lenten season to reflect on what truly matters—love, unity, and faith.
Duterte’s Surprising Change in Tone
Meanwhile, Vice President Sara Duterte recently revealed that her father is leaving his fate to God.
“Ipapasa-Diyos ko na ‘yan lahat. Kung anong mangyari sa buhay ko, so be it.”
(“I will leave everything to God. Whatever happens in my life, so be it.”)
This statement is a stark contrast to Duterte’s past criticism of the Catholic Church during his presidency.
When asked about Duterte’s change of tone, the priest responded:
“God is love, but He is also just. So, the truth will also come out.”
The Hague: A Place for Justice
The priest also pointed out that The Hague—home to the International Criminal Court (ICC)—is a symbol of justice.
“Naniniwala ako sa batas ng Diyos. Pero naniniwala rin ako sa batas ng tao.”
(I believe in God’s law, but I also believe in the law of man.”)
With both Duterte’s supporters and critics making their voices heard, the world now watches as the legal process unfolds. Will justice be served? Only time will tell.
