On Rodrigo Duterte’s 80th birthday, supporters gathered outside his detention facility in The Hague, celebrating his legacy with picnics and expressions of solidarity. Conversely, critics held events demanding accountability for alleged human rights violations. Meanwhile, celebrations unfolded in the Philippines, including a motorcade and messages of support.
On the occasion of former President Rodrigo Duterte’s 80th birthday, two distinct gatherings occurred outside his detention facility in The Hague. One group celebrated his legacy, while another sought accountability for his purported crimes. Supporters from various parts of Europe collected outside the International Criminal Court at dawn and marched to Scheveningen Prison, where they organized a picnic and a program to commemorate the day.
Marivic Wijtan, a resident of The Hague and salon owner, expressed her excitement for the event, stating, “I prepared traditional Filipino delicacies—rice cakes, puto, dinuguan, and coffee… I really made an effort.” Notable attendees included Senator Robin Padilla and Atty. Harry Roque. Vice President Sara Duterte conveyed appreciation to supporters in the Philippines and the Netherlands, stating, “Let us also pray to God that President Duterte may return home to the Philippines soon. Our gatherings are a testament to the strength, courage, and conviction of the Filipino people.”
Duterte’s partner, Honeylet Avanceña, attempted to visit him yet was once again denied entry, with the reasons for this restriction remaining unclear. His youngest daughter, Kitty Duterte, expressed a simple birthday wish for her father, which was “Of course, good health.” Separately, a gathering was planned to call for Duterte’s accountability concerning alleged human rights violations.
In the Philippines, Duterte supporters hosted events in Danao City, Cebu, including a unity ride and messages on a “freedom wall” before his birthday. A motorcade commenced at the Quirino Grandstand, with participants displaying Philippine flags and green balloons and carrying placards bearing messages like “Bring Him Home” and “We Stand for Duterte.”
— Sherylin Untalan/DVM, GMA Integrated News
The celebrations of Rodrigo Duterte’s 80th birthday highlighted the polarized opinions regarding his legacy as a former president. While supporters proudly displayed their admiration through gatherings and messages of solidarity, critics continued to urge for accountability concerning allegations of human rights abuses. This juxtaposition of events underscores the ongoing division within the community concerning Duterte’s policies and their aftermath.
Original Source: www.gmanetwork.com
