On former President Rodrigo Duterte’s 80th birthday, contrasting gatherings took place outside his detention facility in The Hague. Supporters rallied in celebration of his legacy, while critics called for accountability regarding his alleged crimes. Events occurred both internationally and within the Philippines, highlighting the polarized views on Duterte’s presidency.
On the occasion of former President Rodrigo Duterte’s 80th birthday, two divergent events unfolded outside his detention facility in The Hague. One gathering was a celebration of his legacy, while the other sought accountability for his alleged criminal actions. Supporters converged outside the International Criminal Court (ICC), marching towards Scheveningen Prison where they organized a picnic and program to commemorate the day.
The celebration featured traditional Filipino food, with Marivic Wijtan, a local beauty salon owner, expressing her enthusiasm by stating, “I prepared traditional Filipino delicacies—rice cakes, puto, dinuguan, and coffee… I really made an effort.” Among the attendees were Senator Robin Padilla and attorney Harry Roque. Vice President Sara Duterte expressed gratitude to supporters from both the Philippines and the Netherlands, urging prayers for her father’s prompt return to the Philippines.
Adding a personal touch, Duterte’s common-law partner, Honeylet Avanceña, sought to visit him at the detention facility but faced another denial of entry. The reasons for this restriction remain unspecified. Duterte’s youngest daughter, Kitty, expressed her wishes for her father’s health, succinctly stating, “Of course, good health.”
In contrast, a separate gathering was scheduled later that day outside the detention center, where critics aimed to demand accountability for Duterte’s purported human rights violations. Concurrently, supporters in the Philippines held various events, including a unity ride and messages on a “freedom wall” in Danao City, Cebu, as part of their birthday homage.
On the day of the rally, a motorcade initiated from the Quirino Grandstand, featuring participants waving Philippine flags and green balloons, while vehicles displayed placards proclaiming, “Bring Him Home” and “We Stand for Duterte.”
The events surrounding former President Duterte’s 80th birthday showcased the stark divide in public sentiment towards him. Supporters celebrated his legacy with solidarity in The Hague, while critics organized to demand accountability for alleged human rights abuses. The gatherings, both in the Netherlands and in the Philippines, reflected the ongoing tension regarding Duterte’s presidency and the longing of his followers for his return.
Original Source: www.gmanetwork.com
