Supporters rally outside Duterte’s detention facility on his 80th birthday

On former President Rodrigo Duterte’s 80th birthday, two contrasting gatherings took place outside his detention facility in The Hague—one celebrating his legacy, the other demanding accountability for his alleged crimes.

According to a 24 Oras report by Mariz Umali, Duterte’s supporters from across Europe assembled outside the International Criminal Court early Friday.

They marched in solidarity from the ICC to Scheveningen Prison, where they organized a picnic and a program to mark the occasion.

Marivic Wijtan, a long-time resident of The Hague and owner of a beauty salon, expressed her enthusiasm for the event.

"Mayroon po akong mga kakanin, may puto, may dinuguan at may coffee... Nag-effort talaga ako," she said.

(I prepared traditional Filipino delicacies—rice cakes, puto, dinuguan, and coffee... I really made an effort.)

Among those in attendance were Senator Robin Padilla and Atty. Harry Roque. Vice President Sara Duterte also extended her gratitude to her father’s supporters in the Philippines and the Netherlands.

"Hilingin din natin sa Diyos na sana ay makauwi na agad si Pangulong Duterte sa Pilipinas. Ang ating mga pagtitipon ay nagpapatunay ng lakas, tapang, at paninindigan ng mga Pilipino," she said.

(Let us also pray to God that President Duterte may return home to the Philippines soon. Our gatherings are a testament to the strength, courage, and conviction of the Filipino people.)

Duterte’s common-law partner, Honeylet Avanceña, attempted to visit him at the detention facility but was once again denied entry. The reason for the restriction remains unclear.

Meanwhile, his youngest daughter, Kitty Duterte, shared a simple birthday wish for her father: "Of course, good health."

Later in the day, a separate gathering was planned outside the detention center, where critics intended to call for Duterte’s accountability over alleged human rights violations.

Back in the Philippines, Duterte supporters held events in Danao City, Cebu, including a unity ride and messages written on a “freedom wall” on the eve of his birthday.

On Friday, a motorcade began at the Quirino Grandstand, with participants carrying Philippine flags and green balloons. Vehicles bore placards with messages such as "Bring Him Home" and "We Stand for Duterte." — Sherylin Untalan/DVM, GMA Integrated News