Rodrigo Duterte Set to Return as Davao City Mayor: What This Means for Residents

Six weeks ago, flowers, balloons, and birthday cards flooded the International Criminal Court’s detention center in The Hague. These gifts were for Rodrigo Duterte, the former president of the Philippines, who turned 80 on March 28. Duterte faces serious accusations of crimes against humanity, with the possibility of spending his remaining years in prison.

Nicholas Kaufman, Duterte’s lawyer, noted the chaos of the gifts, explaining he left with sacks of mail meant for his client. Back in the Philippines, thousands of supporters donned green outfits—the color of Duterte’s political party—and took to the streets of Davao City.

Despite his controversial presidency, marked by a violent anti-drug campaign resulting in many deaths, Duterte remains a popular figure in the Philippines. As Filipinos prepare to vote in upcoming midterm elections, he is likely to secure another term as mayor of Davao City, a position he has held multiple times.

Duterte’s recent arrest and extradition have caused a rift among Filipinos. While many support the international investigation into his actions, others see him as a victim of political bias, particularly against President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. This tension is reflected in recent polls: Marcos’s approval rating dropped significantly from 42% to 25% following Duterte’s arrest, while support for Sara Duterte, his daughter and current vice president, climbed from 52% to 59%.

According to a 2022 study by Pulse Asia, 60% of Filipinos believe that accountability is vital for public figures’ actions, reflecting a growing desire for justice and transparency in governance. This sentiment underscores the complex relationship Filipinos have with their leaders, balancing admiration and criticism.

The public reaction, particularly on social media, is equally divided, with hashtags supporting both sides trending frequently. This marks a moment in Philippine politics where the past and present collide, as Duterte’s legacy continues to shape the country’s future.

For further insights into the situation, you can explore the full report from Pulse Asia.

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Politics and Government,Elections,Mayors,Hague (Netherlands),Davao (Philippines),Duterte, Sara,Duterte, Rodrigo,International Criminal Court