VP Sara Duterte to join ‘Free Duterte Now’ rally ahead of ICC trial

MJ Farrley Ong

Vice President Sara Duterte confirmed on July 27 that she will attend the “Free Duterte Now” rally outside the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague, Netherlands on July 29, as supporters protest the prosecution of former president Rodrigo Duterte.

In an interview, VP Duterte said the demonstration will take place in front of the Scheveningen prison complex, where the ex-president is currently detained.

She said the gathering aims to denounce what supporters describe as injustice committed against her father.

“This is a ‘Free Duterte Now’ rally, and we will talk about the injustice done to [former] president Duterte,” the vice president said.

Duterte revealed that she had informed her father about the rally during a recent visit but also cautioned him that public demonstrations may not benefit his legal defense before the ICC.

Previous rallies had prompted concerns that statements by supporters were monitored and could influence the assesment of the case.

Duterte added that the former president questioned the purpose of the protest, who also replied, “Bahala kayo kung ‘yan ang gusto ninyo.” (“It’s up to you if that’s what you want.”)

Despite her reservations, the rally will proceed as a place where supporters can express their grievances over the former president’s detention.

The vice president also shared that her father remains in good condition and has spent much of their recent conversations discussing developments in Philippine politics.

She likewise recounted meeting overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in London, saying many supporters expressed concerns for the former president and asked her to send their prayers and messages of support.

Former president Duterte is facing three counts of crimes against humanity connected to his administration’s anti-illegal drug campaign. 

Government records estimate that at least 6,000 people were killed during the campaign, while human rights organizations place the death toll at more than 30,000, including children. 

His trial before the ICC is scheduled to begin on November 30.