Former President Rodrigo Duterte is set to celebrate his 80th birthday, a significant milestone, while in detention at the International Criminal Court (ICC).
His two daughters, Vice President Sara Duterte and Veronika Duterte, expressed their birthday wishes to their detained father in the Netherlands.
In her message, Vice President Duterte called on loyalists and supporters to continue praying for her father’s safe return to the Philippines and for his continued strength and good health.
“I hope you will continue your support and love for our former president until the upcoming elections for our senators,” she said, thanking supporters.
“In your courage, support, and prayers, we rely and hope that we may achieve justice for Rodrigo Duterte, for the Filipino people, and for our nation, the Philippines,” the Vice President added.
Meanwhile, Veronika Duterte, who witnessed her father’s arrest before flying to the ICC, shared a heartfelt message, highlighting his strong leadership and unwavering commitment to public service.
“A man of very few words, but the most actions. My father has always been a force to be reckoned with. Even in his sunset days, he poses the biggest threat because of his bold heroism and patriotism,” Veronika said.
“He is indeed a man, a father of the people. His love goes beyond his commitment and devotion to the people,” she added.
The younger Duterte vowed to preserve her father’s legacy, expressing gratitude to their supporters.
“You have brought us this far, and you are the reason for his strong will to live. My heart goes out to each and every one of you who are in this battle to bring him home,” she said.
Earlier, VP Sara and Duterte’s common-law wife, Honeylet Avanceña, visited the ICC detention facility ahead of the former president’s birthday, though they were unable to meet him.
According to the VP, their visit was not to see Duterte but to retrieve items that were not permitted inside the facility.
Duterte’s legal counsel, meanwhile, said they are working on securing a visit on Friday, just in time for the former president’s birthday, noting that Avanceña is on the list of approved family visitors.
There will also be a small gathering outside the detention facility with Duterte supporters for a small celebration expected on Friday to mark his 80th birthday.