Former President Rodrigo Duterte, known during his presidency for his fierce stance against critics, is now encouraging Filipinos to speak out against what he views as growing government overreach, according to his daughter, Veronica “Kitty” Duterte.
Addressing supporters in The Hague, Veronica shared that she had updated her father on current developments in the Philippines, specifically pointing to the massive demonstrations organized by the Iglesia ni Cristo (INC).
“Maiksi lang yung sinabi niya. He said, ‘Sa mga Pilipino, ipagpatuloy nyo yan.’ So take it however you think it means,” Veronica said.
“Sa abuso nila sa atin, darating yung panahon na mapupuno talaga yung Pilipino. ‘Ipagpatuloy nyo yan.’ Yun yung sinabi ni PRRD,” she added, referring to her father.
She further called on the public to stand up for the nation and one another against political pressures.
“Kasi hindi sila titigil hanggang tayo na talaga yung magtayo para sa sarili natin. Hopefully, everything is peaceful,” she said.
The former chief executive has been held in detention in The Hague since March 2025, where he is awaiting trial by the International Criminal Court (ICC) for alleged crimes against humanity linked to his administration’s anti-drug campaign.
Her statements follow a major demonstration where approximately 15,000 INC members converged at the Edsa People Power Monument to protest the Office of the Ombudsman’s impending plunder charges against Senator Rodante Marcoleta, a prominent member of the religious organization.
The demonstrators later transferred their protest to Liwasang Bonifacio after Quezon City authorities declined to extend their rally permit along EDSA-White Plains.