Vice President Sara Duterte recently shared a heartfelt message of gratitude to everyone who celebrated her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte’s, 80th birthday. Many of his supporters gathered in different parts of the Philippines and even in other countries to show their love and support.
In a video message, VP Sara expressed how much their efforts meant to her father.
“To my fellow Filipinos, I sincerely thank all of you who continue to support and love former President Rodrigo Duterte. Your gatherings in the Philippines, The Netherlands, and other parts of the world are a huge deal for him,” she said.
Prayers for Duterte’s Return
Aside from thanking supporters, VP Sara also asked them to keep praying for her father.
“Let us pray to God that President Duterte can return home to the Philippines soon,” she said. “Our gatherings show the strength, bravery, and unwavering spirit of the Filipino people.”
Why is Duterte in The Netherlands?
Former President Duterte is currently in The Hague, Netherlands, where he is facing serious legal charges. The International Criminal Court (ICC) has accused him of crimes against humanity, including murder. He was arrested in the Philippines on March 11 and was quickly transferred to The Hague for trial.
Celebrations and Protests Outside Duterte’s Detention
On Duterte’s 80th birthday, two very different events happened outside his detention center in The Hague.
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Supporters gathered to celebrate his birthday and honor his leadership. They organized a picnic and a program.
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Protesters gathered to demand justice and accountability for the alleged crimes he is being accused of.
A report by 24 Oras journalist Mariz Umali shared that many of Duterte’s supporters from across Europe marched from the ICC to Scheveningen Prison, where they held their celebration.
Times Square Rally for Duterte
Duterte’s supporters also gathered in New York City’s Times Square on Friday to demand his release. People from different states on the East Coast traveled to New York to show their support.
This was actually the second day in a row that Duterte’s supporters held a protest in Times Square.
Similar demonstrations were also reported in:
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Chicago
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California
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Washington, D.C.
Government’s Reminder: Follow the Law
The Philippine Consulate in New York reminded everyone to stay peaceful while expressing their opinions.
“Filipinos all over the world should always follow local laws while exercising their freedom of speech,” said New York Consul General Senen Mangalile.
This reminder came after 17 Filipinos were arrested in Qatar for holding a protest without permission. As of Saturday morning, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) confirmed that they were still being held at a police station.
