Supporters of former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte held a rally in Saipan calling for his safe return from ICC detention. Organizers emphasized ongoing loyalty and urged for prayers for his release, while critiques highlighted the need for justice for victims of Duterte’s policies. The rally indicates a deep divide in opinions about Duterte’s leadership and the ICC’s role.
In Saipan, supporters of former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte gathered for a rally and road-waving event, advocating for his safe return to the Philippines and appealing to the International Criminal Court (ICC). Organizers Marie Zayko and Roderick Lopez led the event, which attracted over 250 attendees. The gathering coincided with the 17th president’s birthday celebration, showcasing the continued loyalty of his followers amidst his current situation in the Netherlands.
Marie Zayko expressed her unwavering support for Duterte, stating, “This is in support for Duterte (also known as Tatay Digong) who right now is in the Netherlands because of Bong Bong Marcos (Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr).” Roderick Lopez added gratitude to the supporters and emphasized the need for prayers to ensure Duterte’s return, indicating that this rally will not be the last.
In her passionate appeal to the ICC, Zayko declared, “I hope Bong Bong Marcos and the [Philippine] government will realize what they did to Duterte because it is really terrible. [My] message to ICC: Duterte is a good president. Please, he helped a lot of people.” Meanwhile, Lopez contested the ICC’s actions, arguing that Duterte’s detention is illegal since the Philippines has been out of the ICC jurisdiction since 2019.
Duterte’s recent arrest stemmed from an ICC warrant related to allegations of crimes against humanity during the controversial drug war. Supporters Joven Merin and Jerry Soriano reiterated Duterte’s significance to the Filipino populace, noting the positive influence he had during his presidency.
Romeo Malasarte, another supporter, critiqued the situation, stating that the arrest reflects poorly on national sovereignty. He asserted, “The arrest of a former president based on an ICC warrant – carried out by our own police – is a blatant disregard for our national sovereignty.” He emphasized the broader implications of allowing a former leader to be extradited to a foreign court.
In contrast, critics on Saipan highlighted the legitimacy of the ICC’s actions. Joselito Espino contended that justice must be served for victims of Duterte’s governance, stating, “Those who will oppose will say it’s illegal. His supporters are now asking for due process, something victims of his ‘war on drugs’ weren’t given. We need justice for all the victims of extrajudicial killings during Duterte’s time in office.”
Darwin Gonzales supported the ICC’s operation, emphasizing that due process was followed. He stated, “ICC through the Interpol did it in a most lawful process as possible given that the Philippines is no longer a member of the ICC.” He also believed that Duterte deserves the opportunity to defend himself legally, affirming that he accepts whichever verdict follows due process.
The rally in Saipan highlighted the stark division within Filipino society regarding former President Rodrigo Duterte. While his supporters demand his release from ICC detention, citing his contributions and questioning the ICC’s jurisdiction, critics argue for justice for victims of his administration’s policies. The unfolding events reflect broader concerns about national sovereignty and due process, showcasing a critical juncture in the Philippines’ political landscape.
Original Source: www.rnz.co.nz
