DAVAO CITY – Former President Rodrigo Duterte assured his supporters that he is doing well and is prepared for an extended legal battle regarding the case filed against him by the International Criminal Court (ICC).
In a video message posted on his social media page before landing at Rotterdam Airport, Duterte updated his countrymen on his condition following his long-haul flight, which included a stopover in Dubai. Appearing visibly exhausted, he reassured them that he remained in good spirits despite the situation.
“To my Countrymen, just to give you the current situation, I am about to land sa Hague, galing ako sa Dubai for a stopover, it is a long flight. Okay lang ako do not worry,” he said.
Duterte Takes Responsibility for His War on Drugs
Duterte acknowledged that his case stems from his administration’s aggressive stance on law and order, particularly the controversial war on drugs. He reiterated that he had instructed law enforcement agencies and the military to perform their duties and take full responsibility for their actions.
“I think this has something to do with the law and order noon and sinabi ko naman sa mga pulis and military na magtrabahoi kayo at ako ang managot. So, ito na nga, for all of the whatever happened in the past , ako na yong front sa ating law enforcement, sinabi ko nga, I will protect you and I will, ako ang managot, managot sa lahat,“ he added.
He emphasized that he had always stood by his commitment to protect police and military personnel who executed his directives during his presidency. As a leader, he stated that he was ready to be held accountable for the consequences of his administration’s policies.
The former president expected the ICC case to involve lengthy legal proceedings. He assured his supporters that he remains steadfast in his commitment to serving the country, despite the challenges ahead.
“It will be a long legal process, and I say it to you. I will continue to serve my country, so be it. “Kung yan ang akong destiny, Salamat.”
Known for his fatalistic outlook, Duterte ended his message with a note of acceptance, implying that he is prepared to face whatever destiny awaits him in the coming trial.
As he embarks on this historic legal battle, his supporters remain divided between those who see him as a protector of the nation and those who believe he must be held accountable for alleged human rights violations.
The proceedings at The Hague will be closely watched as they unfold, shaping Duterte’s legacy and the broader implications for international justice and accountability.
Edith Z Caduaya studied Bachelor of Science in Development Communication at the University of Southern Mindanao.
The chairperson of Mindanao Independent Press Council (MIPC) Inc.
