Kidapawan City, March 21, 2025 — The Sangguniang Panlungsod of Kidapawan has unanimously approved a resolution supporting the call for former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte to be allowed to return to the Philippines.
The resolution, identified as Proposed Resolution No. 102 and introduced by City Councilor Aljo Cris Dizon, urges President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to take diplomatic steps to facilitate Duterte’s repatriation from the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague, Netherlands, where he has been detained for over a week.
The approval of the resolution follows a wave of nationwide demonstrations, including prayer rallies, motorcades, and other public gatherings, as Duterte’s supporters voiced their opposition to his arrest. Kidapawan City joined these activities, with local officials and residents expressing solidarity with the former president.
Kidapawan City Mayor Atty. Jose Paolo Evangelista also shared his sentiments on the matter, emphasizing the significant impact of Duterte’s detention on the country. While specific legal arguments were not detailed in the resolution, its proponents argue that Duterte should be given the opportunity to defend himself within Philippine jurisdiction rather than in an international court.
Supporters of Duterte, including various political groups and local government officials, believe that the former president’s arrest is politically motivated and undermines national sovereignty. They argue that the Philippine government should assert its independence in handling domestic affairs, including cases against former officials.
The ICC has yet to release an official statement regarding Duterte’s ongoing detention, but it has set the proceedings for September 23, 2025. Meanwhile, the passage of the resolution in Kidapawan is expected to inspire similar actions from other local governments and political allies of Duterte nationwide.
As the situation unfolds, all eyes are on the response of President Marcos Jr. and his administration regarding the growing demand for Duterte’s return to the Philippines.
