The arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte by the International Criminal Court (ICC) on March 11, 2025, has sparked mixed reactions across the country. While some see it as a step toward accountability, others believe it is an unjust move against a leader they continue to support. In Eastern Visayas, the influence of Duterte is still evident, as indicated by the recent rallies and prayer meetings that took place throughout the region. However, not everyone shares the same sentiment. While his supporters are vocal in their defense, others remain critical, pointing to the still unresolved issues regarding his administration's war on drugs.
The Loud Voice of Support
Duterte supporters quickly rushed to organize different events across Eastern Visayas immediately following the arrest of the former president. On March 14, Duterte allies in Ormoc City organized a motorcade and prayer rally, shouting "Bring Duterte Back!" to voice their continued support. Participants from different places came to the event, waving Philippine flags and banners as they passed along the city.
In Sogod, Southern Leyte, a prayer rally on March 15 gathered individuals who left messages on a "solidarity wall," expressing gratitude for what they see as Duterte’s lasting impact on their communities.
In Catbalogan City, Samar, the motorcade of Duterte supporters ended with a prayer rally along the coastal road in Brgy. Rawis, March 16, 2025. Different groups and individuals participated in the event, where supporters lit candles and prayed for peace in the nation during the current political crisis. Several participants got emotional while praying and singing the famous People Power song, "Magkaisa."
Meanwhile, organized by the Transparency, Accountability, Peace, and Security (TAPS) Coalition and Hakbang ng Maisug-Leyte, thousands of Leyteños gather at the New Reclamation Plaza, Baybay City, on Sunday evening, March 16 for a Prayer Rally in support of Former President Rodrigo Duterte. Crowds light candles in hopes of FPRRD’s return to the Philippines.
A Region with Different Views
While these rallies highlight the strong support to Duterte, they do not represent the entire region. Many remain critical of his past administration, particularly in relation to human rights issues. The ICC case against Duterte rests on claims of extrajudicial killings as part of his war on drugs—claims that remain an issue of national and international debate.
For his supporters, Duterte was a leader who brought real change, particularly in infrastructure and public safety. They believe his arrest is politically motivated and an attack on a leader who prioritized their needs. However, for others, his presidency is also marked by thousands of deaths, with families of victims still seeking justice. This divide shows that the conversation about Duterte’s legacy is far from settled.
What Lies Ahead?
Duterte's court battle is just getting started, and so is the public discourse about it. The rallies in Eastern Visayas attest to the fact that he still holds fierce loyalty in certain areas, but they also highlight a nation still grappling with the complexities of his leadership. As the case goes before the ICC, the challenge for the country is to navigate these divisions—acknowledging both the positive contributions and the controversies of his administration.
In Eastern Visayas, however, one thing is certain: not everyone views Duterte in the same light. While his allies firmly support him, others are debating what justice is all about. And as history continues to unfold, the region—just like the rest of the country—remains divided on the man who once led the nation.
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