The 80th birthday of former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte on March 28, 2025, became a significant event marked by widespread rallies and demonstrations both domestically and internationally. These gatherings highlighted the deep divisions within Philippine society regarding Duterte’s legacy and his current detention by the International Criminal Court (ICC) on charges of crimes against humanity related to his controversial war on drugs.
Massive Support and Calls for Release
In Davao City, Duterte’s political stronghold where he served as mayor for two decades, tens of thousands of supporters assembled to demand his release from ICC custody. Participants donned shirts emblazoned with Duterte’s image and slogans such as “Bring him home.” Many expressed their discontent, calling his arrest unjust.
Similar sentiments were echoed in other parts of the country, with rallies and motorcades organized in cities like Cagayan de Oro, Kidapawan, and Pagadian, despite inclement weather conditions. Clad in green shirts, thousands joined unity rides, prayer vigils, and candle-lit demonstrations in various provinces, all demanding Duterte’s return.
International Demonstrations and Family’s Response
Outside the ICC detention facility in The Hague, Netherlands, hundreds of supporters from across Europe gathered to show solidarity. Marching from the ICC to Scheveningen Prison, they held a picnic and program to mark the occasion. Some Filipino expatriates prepared traditional delicacies, turning the gathering into a show of cultural pride as well as political support.
Vice President Sara Duterte, who has been in The Hague since shortly after her father’s arrest on March 11, expressed gratitude for the global support. She stated that these demonstrations made the challenges Duterte is facing “more bearable.” Duterte’s family and legal team remain hopeful that he will be released, though the ICC has yet to confirm if his detention will continue beyond his pretrial hearing.
Government’s Caution and Public Order Concerns
In contrast to the outpouring of support, the Philippine government exhibited caution regarding these mass gatherings. Police in Manila intercepted a convoy of at least 100 motorcycle riders near the presidential palace, stopping them from proceeding with a protest demanding Duterte’s release. Authorities cited concerns over public order, reflecting the administration’s careful stance on politically charged demonstrations.
Meanwhile, Malacañang reminded the public to “know their limitations,” emphasizing that while people have the right to assemble, they must do so peacefully and within legal bounds. The statement has been interpreted by some as a warning against potential unrest.
Opposition and Calls for Accountability
While Duterte’s supporters dominated the streets, human rights advocates and families of drug war victims also staged counter-protests, calling for justice. Critics argue that Duterte’s drug war left a bloodstained legacy, with as many as 30,000 people killed in extrajudicial operations. They insist that his ICC case is a necessary step in holding him accountable.
A recent public opinion survey revealed that 51% of Filipinos believe Duterte should face justice for his actions during his presidency. This figure highlights the nation’s deep divide—where one side sees him as a hero, and the other as a leader who must answer for grave human rights violations.
Legal Proceedings and Future Implications
Duterte’s arrest on March 11 in Manila was based on an ICC warrant accusing him of crimes against humanity. He is expected to remain in detention until his pretrial hearing on September 23, which will determine if there is sufficient evidence to proceed to trial. If convicted, he faces life imprisonment.
His defense team has indicated plans to seek provisional release, arguing that his detention is politically motivated. However, legal experts say that such requests are rarely granted by the ICC.
Conclusion
The events surrounding Duterte’s 80th birthday underscore the polarized views within the Philippines regarding his legacy. The massive gatherings in support of Duterte reflect a significant segment of the population that remains loyal to the former president, viewing his arrest as unjust. Conversely, the concurrent calls for accountability highlight the enduring concerns about human rights violations during his administration.
As the legal proceedings at the ICC unfold, the Philippines stands at a crossroads, grappling with the complexities of justice, accountability, and the rule of law in a deeply divided society.