Duterte allies in Cebu expressed disappointment over arrest

Political allies of former president Rodrigo Roa Duterte in Cebu have expressed disappointment over his arrest.

Cebu gubernatorial candidate Pamela Baricuatro told the DAILY TRIBUNE that the arrest was a form of injustice, echoing that what happened to the former president was "unfair."

"This can't be called justice. This is not fair. If a former president who rendered service to the people for years is treated this way, how much more the ordinary Filipinos?" Baricuatro said.

"The people deserve transparency and a full understanding of the basis behind this action," Mandaue City Mayor Jonas Cortes said.

"I think it is best that this be brought to court for a more objective appreciation of the facts," he stressed.

For Mandaue City lone congressional district representative candidate Atty. Regal Oliva, it serves as a warning of potential political unrest, especially with the May 2025 polls drawing closer.

"If the Marcos administration moves to implement this, it will undoubtedly trigger legal battles, with the Supreme Court possibly stepping in," Oliva said.

"More than that, we cannot ignore the political repercussions. Will this decision ignite unrest among Duterte's loyal supporters? Will this be the start of yet another political crisis just as we head into the 2025 elections?" Oliva added.

On 11 March, Baricuatro, along with vice gubernatorial candidate Joselito Ruiz, led Duterte supporters in a prayer vigil at Plaza Independencia in Cebu City.

Baricuatro disclosed that more mass actions are planned in Cebu.

The Hakbang ng Maisug Cebu held a noise barrage when news broke that Duterte was being brought to The Hague, Netherlands.