ILOILO CITY—Former Iloilo City Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog believes the arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte marks a turning point for justice and national healing.
In a statement posted on his Facebook page on Wednesday, Mabilog encouraged those who have lived in fear to continue believing in justice, assuring that it will be delivered in God’s perfect timing.
“I believe this is not only a moment for justice to be served but a moment for our nation to heal—to confront the truth, to right the wrongs, and to choose love, compassion, and unity over hate and division,” Mabilog wrote.
Rather than celebrating Duterte’s arrest, the former mayor chose to reflect on his own struggles.
“Today, as the news of the arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte reaches us, I pause not to celebrate, but to reflect with a heart full of gratitude to God—for His justice, His mercy, and His unfailing love,” he added.
Mabilog also recalled the hardships his family endured, particularly the passing of his mother. Despite the pain, he believes she would be happy now that her long-standing prayers have been answered. He also offered prayers for the nation’s healing.
Mabilog returned to the Philippines last year and surrendered to the National Bureau of Investigation after spending seven years in hiding in the United States. He fled the country after Duterte accused him of being a “major drug protector” and later sought political asylum in the US, which was granted.
On September 19, 2024, Mabilog detailed before the House Quad Committee the traumatizing experience he and his family went through after he found himself the ‘target’ of Duterte’s political vengeance. The former president publicly threatened to have him killed.
Last month, Mabilog was granted executive clemency by President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr., ending the persecution he suffered from the Duterte administration.