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Duterte apologizes for rape remarks


Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte on Tuesday apologized for his controversial remarks about an Australian missionary, who was killed and gang raped during a prison riot in 1989.

“I apologize to the Filipino people for my recent remarks in a rally. There was no intention of disrespecting our women and those who have been victims of this horrible crime. Sometimes my mouth can get the better of me,” Duterte said in a statement.

The Davao City mayor had initially refused to apologize for the remarks, explaining that he "expressed it in utter anger."

He had said that he regretted the "gutter language," but explained that it was part of his tough upbringing.

Last week, a YouTube video uploaded by user "Beatboxer Ng Pinas” showed Duterte recounting the  1989 Davao City prison riot where five visiting missionaries were killed, including Jacqueline Hamill, who was also raped by inmates.

In the video, Duterte said, "P-- ina, sayang. Ang napasok sa isip ko, ni-rape nila, pinagpilahan nila lahat doon. Nagalit ako kasi ni-rape? Oo. Isa rin 'yun. Pero napakaganda, dapat mayor muna ang nauna. Sayang.”

In his statement on Tuesday, Duterte said he "will not apologize not apologize for the things I've done to protect our people, especially the weak and defenseless, from crime."

"I know what it can do to the victims and their families; the anguish and pain they cause; the trauma that can't be erased. I have witnessed these myself numerous times,” he said.

“This is why I am angry. I am angry because horrendous things like this continue to happen to our women and children all over our land. And sadly, government has failed to protect them. If you will give me the chance to lead this country, I promise to all of you that I will protect our women, children and families from the horrors and disorder of crime. I will do this even if I lose my life, my honor and even the presidency,” he added.

The tough-talking Duterte had also been criticized for cursing the Pope because of the traffic jams in Metro Manila caused by the pontiff's visit in the Philippines in January 2015.

“My life is an open book. I am a man of many flaws and contradictions. But when it comes to securing the lives and future of our countrymen and women, you can trust me to do the right thing. I will fight for the people until my last breath,” Duterte said in his statement.

Analysts noted that Duterte could lose crucial votes because of the controversial remarks.

Ramon Casiple of the Institute for Political and Electoral Reforms in the Philippines, said Duterte has "crossed the line."

"He may have given Poe the keys to the presidency," Casiple added, referring to Duterte's rival, Sen. Grace Poe.

Duterte has retained the top spot in the latest survey by Pulse Asia conducted from April 5 to 10. He got 30 percent followed by Poe who got 25 percent. —ALG, GMA News

 

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