FORMER President Rodrigo Duterte, facing legal proceedings at the International Criminal Court (ICC), has “entrusted everything to God,” according to his daughter, Vice President Sara Duterte.
Speaking to supporters after visiting the Hague Penitentiary Institution on Friday, she relayed her father’s words: “Ipapasa-Diyos ko na yan lahat. Kung anong mangyari sa buhay ko, so be it (‘I am entrusting everything to God. Whatever happens to my life, so be it’).”
Responding to a supporter’s pledge of unwavering support, the Vice President declared, “Dili ta mo surrender (We will not surrender).”
On March 14, the former president appeared through video link at the ICC, two days after his arrival in The Hague via charter jet. Updates from Duterte’s lead counsel, British-Israeli lawyer Nicholas Kaufman, indicate the legal team is nearing completion.
In recent media interviews, Kaufman reiterated his stance that Duterte’s detention is unlawful and urged his swift return to the Philippines. Kaufman also remarked on Duterte’s legal acumen, noting his experience as a prosecutor.
The Duterte family is rallying in The Hague, with several members planning to join supporters for a gathering on March 23.
Vice President Duterte confirmed her mother, Elizabeth Zimmerman, is expected to arrive next week, though her visitation rights are uncertain due to their annulled marriage.
Davao City 1st District Rep. Paolo Duterte is also scheduled to visit, but the date remains unconfirmed.
Mayor Sebastian Duterte may visit after the May 12 elections, as he is focused on local campaigns. Honeylet Avanceña and Veronica “Kitty” Duterte are also expected, with arrival dates pending.
When asked about her birthday wish for her father, who turns 80 on March 28, the vice president said, “Good health, comfort, and happiness.” She also affirmed her intention to return to Davao before the mid-term elections.
