Duterte supporters protest arrest, denounce ICC

Supporters of former President Rodrigo Duterte staged a noise barrage and rally in Bacolod City on Wednesday night, March 12, to denounce his arrest and transfer to the ICC.

The protest, led by senatorial candidate Jesus 'Jayvee' Hinlo Jr., drew around 2,500 people for a candlelight and prayer rally at the city government center.

Participants included over 100 motorcycles and vehicles in a motorcade through Bacolod's streets, with police describing the demonstration as orderly and peaceful.

Protesters expressed solidarity with Duterte, who faces trial at the ICC over alleged crimes against humanity linked to his war on drugs that began in 2016.

Hinlo emphasized in a Facebook post that Duterte may not live to see the conclusion of the case given the length of the trial and the former president's age and health condition.

While many in Bacolod supported Duterte, others criticized him, including former governor Rafael Coscolluela, who emphasized due process for all individuals.

Human rights advocates highlighted unsolved cases of extrajudicial killings during Duterte's presidency, such as the murder of trial lawyer Rafael Atotubo in 2018.