Duterte supporters protest for his release in Davao

A celebration for Davao City's 88th founding anniversary turned into a protest rally on Sunday, March 16, with approximately 30,000 supporters calling for the release and return of ex-president Rodrigo Duterte.

The march, dubbed as a solidarity walk, transformed the Araw ng Dabaw parade into a demonstration carrying banners and placards that read 'We stand with FPRRD' and 'Bring Him Back Home'.

Participants chanted for Duterte's return in response to his arrest on March 11 and detention at The Hague, where he faces charges before the International Criminal Court (ICC) for extrajudicial killings during his war on drugs.

Duterte's influence remains strong in Davao City, where he held various positions including mayor, vice mayor, and congressman before becoming president in 2016.

The protest highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding Duterte’s legal issues and his support base in his hometown.