Last weekend, after former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte was detained by the International Criminal Court (ICC) for alleged "crimes against humanity," global support actions erupted in multiple countries and regions. Supporters took to the streets to demonstrate, calling for Duterte's release and his return to the Philippines.
The Hague, Netherlands: Filipino community rallies for release
About 250 Filipino expatriates and supporters gathered in front of the International Homosexual Monument in The Hague, Netherlands, holding banners and chanting slogans, demanding the ICC to release Duterte. Philippine Senator Robin Padilla and former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque also appeared in support. Roque told the crowd, "This will not be a short struggle; we must prepare for a prolonged battle." Padilla emphasized, "Filipinos abroad should support each other rather than blame each other."
Aklan Province: Motorcycle rally makes a statement
In Kalibo, the capital of Aklan Province, a group of supporters wearing white T-shirts printed with "I support FPRRD" drove motorcycles in a parade, eventually giving speeches at the rally site, reaffirming their hope to bring Duterte back to the country.
The ongoing global support actions show that Duterte still has a large number of loyal supporters in the Philippines and abroad. The future developments are still to be observed by the international community.
Davao City: Thousands in black show unity
Coinciding with the "Araw ng Dabaw" celebration, Duterte's hometown of Davao City held a grand "Solidarity Walk." Tens of thousands of citizens dressed in black walked to show support for the former president. Davao City Mayor Sebastian Duterte, Duterte's son, spoke at the event, emphasizing the firm support of the hometown people for the former leader.
Cebu Province: Simultaneous rallies and masses in multiple towns
Several towns in Cebu Province held simultaneous activities in support of Duterte. In Consolacion, mayoral candidate Vilo organized a candlelight prayer meeting attended by about 2,000 supporters, praying for national peace and the former president's return. In Lapu-Lapu City, former mayor Radaza led a prayer meeting, calling for continued attention to Duterte's health. Additionally, former Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama and gubernatorial candidate Baricuatro co-hosted a mass at Mabolo Church and organized a "Unity Walk" to Independence Square, showing their support stance.
Manila: Motorcade parades across various locations
In the Philippine capital Manila, hundreds of Duterte supporters gathered at the Quirino Grandstand on the morning of March 16, then formed a motorcade that passed through Manila City Hall, the Supreme Court, and Quezon Memorial Circle, eventually reaching Fairview in Quezon City. Numerous motorcyclists joined the procession, loudly chanting slogans demanding Duterte's return to the country. Senator Ronald dela Rosa and other political figures also appeared, thanking the crowd and criticizing the attitude of the current President Marcos in their speeches.
Prague, Czech Republic: Filipino community holds prayer meeting
In Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, Wenceslas Square became the gathering place for Filipino expatriates. Over 200 Filipinos gathered to pray, with organizer Jimmy Chavez Jr. stating that many expatriates took leave or adjusted their work schedules to participate in the event, planning to decide whether to continue mobilization based on future developments.
