Global supporters celebrate Duterte’s 80th birthday

A nationwide and global tribute will mark the 80th birthday of former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte on 28 March, with supporters seeking divine intervention for his release from detention at the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague, Netherlands.

Duterte is facing trial for alleged crimes against humanity.

Benito Ranque, co-convener of the Return Duterte Movement, said the commemoration, dubbed “Green Hope Day,” will feature a “Bring Duterte Home Unity Motorcade” in Manila and Quezon City.

Similar motorcades are scheduled in various provinces, including Pangasinan, Leyte, Davao, Butuan, Surigao, Cebu and Bohol, among others.

“The Unity Caravan will start in Lingayen, Pangasinan, and Lucena City at 6 a.m. on 28 March and will travel to Manila. Riders along the service roads will join the motorcade as it progresses,” Ranque said.

Upon arrival in Manila and Quezon City, candlelight ceremonies will be held at Liwasang Bonifacio and the People Power Monument. Participants are encouraged to wear green and bring flags and banners in a show of solidarity.

Motorcade organizers anticipate the participation of major rider groups, while volunteers will line service roads to demonstrate support for Duterte, who will be spending his 80th birthday in a foreign detention facility.

Aside from the nationwide events, Duterte’s supporters worldwide will hold peaceful gatherings in key cities across different countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, the Netherlands, Saudi Arabia and the United Kingdom.

In the US, events are scheduled at Hermann Park in Houston, Times Square in New York and Washington, D.C., among other locations. Supporters in the Netherlands will gather in front of the ICC building in The Hague.

In Asia, gatherings will take place in Shanghai, Doha, Bandar Seri Begawan, Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

Meanwhile, events in Australia will be hosted in Sydney, Canberra and Hobart, among other places. The Philippines’ ASEAN neighbors, including Malaysia and Vietnam, will also participate in the commemoration.

The movement aims to raise awareness about Duterte’s detention and rally global support for his return to the Philippines.