Actress and television host Mariel Padilla expressed gratitude to former President Rodrigo Duterte during a visit to The Hague, citing his role in granting an absolute pardon to her husband, senator and actor Robin Padilla.
Speaking to supporters and attendees at the event, Mariel became emotional as she recalled how she and their children wanted to accompany Robin as soon as he departed for the trip.
“Gusto na po namin sumama agad dahil very personal po ang aking pasasalamat kay PRRD,” she said.
Padilla emphasized that Duterte was the only Philippine president who had granted such a pardon to Robin, referring to the 2016 executive clemency that cleared his criminal record.
“Si PRRD lang po ang pangulo na nagbigay ng absolute pardon kay Robin. Kaya lagi kong sinasabi, habang buhay po kaming napakalaki ang utang na loob kay PRRD,” Mariel continued.
She added that their unwavering support for Duterte stems from this personal act of compassion.
“He deserves it and more,” she stated.
