Duterte supporters call for his return

CEBU, Philippines — Supporters of former president Rodrigo Duterte gathered in a show of unity and frustration over what they described as continued government silence regarding the latter’s situation abroad.

In a press conference yesterday, held days before a scheduled prayer rally on July 19 in Lagtang, Talisay City, Cebu, drew together members of several pro-Duterte groups, rider clubs, and grassroots organizations.

Toto Lacro of Sara Volunteer Action Group said that their call for the government to take actions for the return of Duterte have fallen on deaf ears.

Duterte is currently imprisoned at The Hague in Netherlands for crimes against humanity.

“Most of us are just praying that the ICC (International Criminal Court) and Malacañang will be able to bring him back,” said Moises Deiparine, founder of Duterte Riders Team.

Some compared Duterte’s case to that of former president Ferdinand Marcos Sr., who was in exile for decades and only buried in the Philippines in 2016 under Duterte’s presidency.

“We’re very disappointed. The Marcoses were given a chance, but why can’t they give the same to former president Duterte? Back in 2022, we were part of the UNITEAM. Now, it feels like we’re just part of the budol,” Lacro added.

The gathering served as a prelude to a larger prayer rally set on July 19, 2025 organized by the SIS (Solid Inday Sara) core group.

The organizers hoped that the event will renew calls for clarity, justice, and respect for Duterte’s legacy.

“We will not be silenced. We stand in prayer and in unity,” said Ian Gacrama, founder of Philippine Freedom Riders Club.

Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro is expected to join the rally, said the organizers. — /JG (FREEMAN)