From his detention in The Hague, former President Rodrigo Duterte has called on his supporters to pray for the Philippines and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. as the nation navigates current challenges.
Vice President Sara Duterte shared the message during a Friday interview, recounting a conversation with her father regarding the supporters gathered at “Duterte Street”—the area fronting the International Criminal Court (ICC) detention center.
“Ang gawin n’yo daw ay magdasal para sa bayan at para kay Bongbong Marcos,” the Vice President said, quoting her father.
The former leader, who is awaiting trial over allegations related to his administration’s anti-drug campaign, reportedly characterized his incarceration as a personal sacrifice.
He urged his followers to prioritize their well-being rather than enduring the hardships of camping outside the facility.
“At sabi niya na ‘yung nandoon siya sa loob, ‘yun ay sakripisyo na daw so, hindi daw ninyo kailangan na magsakripisyo dito sa labas sa Duterte Street,” she added.
The Vice President, currently on a Malacañang-approved multi-country working visit until May 15, described her father’s condition as stable.
She expressed deep gratitude to the overseas Filipinos who traveled to the Netherlands to show solidarity.
“Ang lakas ko ay galing sa tao at ‘yung patuloy ninyo na suporta at pag pagtitiwala, ‘yun ‘yung nagpo-propel sa amin para tumuloy kahit mahirap,” she noted.
The ICC recently moved a step closer to formal proceedings after confirming the formation of the Trial Chamber judges for the case.
Despite the legal developments, supporters have maintained a presence at the detention site to show their continued loyalty to the Duterte family.