Supporters of former President Rodrigo Duterte called anew for his return in Davao City during the “Limang Buwan, Isang Sigaw: Free Duterte Concert” in commemoration of FPRRD’s five months in detention at the International Criminal Court (ICC).
Despite heavy rains, the event held at the Coastal Road Bazaar in Davao City on Friday evening gathered thousands of supporters of the former president, including allies, families, and local groups waving banners and wearing shirts bearing the slogan “Free Duterte.”
Among the attendees were Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go, Davao City acting Vice Mayor Rodrigo “Rigo” Duterte II, Davao City Second District Representative Omar Duterte, and PPP Party-list nominee Bryan Lim.
Apart from the performances of Giselle Sanchez, Aila Santos & R2K, Wency Cornejo, Lazy Fat, Silent Sanctuary, Isla Riddim, Joey Ayala, and other artists, the event was also highlighted with a drone show display.
In his message, acting Vice Mayor Duterte said they were gathered for a common reason, “one that goes beyond differences in religion, culture, and beliefs—and that is their love for Tatay Digong.”
The acting vice mayor, a namesake of FPRRD, recalled that his grandfather always thought of nothing but the welfare of the Filipino people and the development and security of the nation.
He also criticized what he described as the “callous actions” of the national government, saying these “reveal how dictatorial, corrupt, and elitist this current administration is.”
The young Duterte urged those behind the arrest to admit that “it was a blunder, a wrong political move that negatively boomeranged on all of you.” He further called on them to “listen as we speak, and watch as we move with the people.”
He assured supporters that they will not retaliate with the same unjustified cruelness or dead political tradition, but will instead remain true to their duty as public servants.
Rep. Omar, for his part, urged his grandfather’s supporters to remain steadfast and never tire of fighting for what is right and just.
“Let us continue, my grandfather, Pres. Rodrigo Duterte’s legacy by being united in our efforts to help our country become better for future generations,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Davao City Police Office (DCPO) reported that the activity ended peacefully and normally with no untoward incident reported.
DCPO estimated that attendees of the said activity reached 10,000.
DCPO, together with other security clusters, conducted area security, route security, and mobile visibility within the area of responsibility, particularly at the coastal road to ensure the safety of organizers, staff, spectators, guests, and the general public, as well as to maintain peace and order during the event.
