Davos City: Tens of thousands of supporters of former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte took to the streets of Davao City on Friday to mark his 80th birthday, demanding his return from International Criminal Court (ICC) custody.
Duterte was arrested in Manila on March 11 and transferred to ICC detention, where he faces murder charges related to his controversial drug crackdown that resulted in the deaths of thousands of suspected drug dealers and users.
Despite the celebratory mood in Davao City—where Duterte served as mayor for two decades—a contrasting scene played out in Manila, where smaller protests were held by groups denouncing his leadership. Critics argue that many innocent lives were lost under his administration. A recent survey indicated that 51% of Filipinos believe Duterte should be held accountable for his actions.
In Davao City, Duterte’s stronghold, supporters donned shirts emblazoned with his image and the slogan “Bring him home.”
“He should not have been treated that way. The way he was arrested was unjust,” said Meriam Ranain, 49. “I hope he can come home soon and that he is in good health.”
Duterte, who governed the Philippines from 2016 to 2022, faces allegations of crimes against humanity, with prosecutors alleging his administration oversaw extrajudicial killings by death squads. If convicted, he would become the first former Asian head of state to be tried by the ICC.
Also Read | Hegseth Reaffirms ‘Ironclad’ US Commitment to Philippines Security
Duterte has remained defiant, insisting that his campaign targeted criminals and that police were instructed to kill only in self-defense. He is expected to seek provisional release from ICC custody, though the court rarely grants such requests.
Back in Davao, dozens of his loyalists gathered outside his residence, singing, dancing, and symbolically blowing out candles on a birthday cake.
Also Read | Judge to Decide if Columbia Protester Khalil’s Case Stays in New Jersey or Moves to Louisiana
Meanwhile, in Manila, relatives of those killed in Duterte’s anti-drug campaign joined activists in calling for justice.
“Families of victims of the so-called war on drugs continue to grieve. There is not a celebration, but another fitting moment for remembrance and protest,” the advocacy group Rise Up for Life and for Rights said in a statement.
