Duterte supporters stage motorcade before Manila rally

A day after the International Criminal Court's pre-trial for former President Rodrigo Duterte, supporters held a motorcade on Saturday that ended at a prayer rally at the Liwasang Bonifacio in Manila.

According to a Super Radyo dzBB report, the "Prayer Rally for Tatay Digong" motorcade passed through major roads before arriving at the venue.

The convoy's arrival briefly disrupted traffic along Magallanes Drive. Authorities were present to manage the flow of vehicles and ensure public safety during the event.

Meanwhile, the Philippine National Police announced that measures were in place ahead of the scheduled afternoon rally in Manila.

On Friday, Duterte appeared before the ICC via video link. According to ICC spokesperson Fadi El Abdallah, Duterte was at a detention center while his counsel attended the court proceedings.

During the hearing, the ICC presented Duterte with charges related to killings linked to his administration's war on drugs. He was also informed of his rights under the Rome Statute.

The next hearing, set for September 23, 2025, will focus on the confirmation of the charges.

"After assessing all factors, including the need for the parties and participants to adequately prepare, as well as Mr. Duterte's rights, including his right to be tried within a reasonable time, the date for the commencement of the confirmation of charges hearing is September 23, 2025," said Presiding Judge Iulia Motoc.

"In accordance with Rule 1217 of the Rules of Procedure and Evidence, this date may be postponed by the Chamber depending on the progress of the proceedings, either on its own motion or at the request of the prosecutor or the defense," she added.

Malacañang described the ICC's handling of the pre-trial as "fair."

Meanwhile, Duterte's daughter, Vice President Sara Duterte, conveyed her father's message to his supporters. — DVM, GMA Integrated News