Despite facing serious charges, Duterte's supporters rally as elections approach
Philippines' Charged Leader Continues to Captivate Public Attention
Philippines' Charged Leader Continues to Captivate Public Attention
Rodrigo Duterte's Popularity Remains Strong Amid Legal Battles
Former President Rodrigo Duterte of the Philippines is currently incarcerated at the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague, facing serious accusations of crimes against humanity for his controversial anti-drug campaign during his administration. Just six weeks ago, on March 28, he celebrated his 80th birthday behind bars, receiving an outpouring of support including an astronomical amount of flowers and birthday cards from his loyal followers back home.
Nicholas Kaufman, Duterte's lawyer, recounts the unusual scene at the ICC where large volumes of fan mail had to be managed as the court dealt with the influx of correspondence. Meanwhile, in Davao City—the region Duterte served as mayor multiple times—thousands rallied in green to show their allegiance to their former leader as they anticipate the upcoming midterm elections where he stands a strong chance of reclaiming his mayoral position.
Despite his legal challenges, Duterte maintains a significant degree of popularity in the Philippines, with polls indicating that he is poised for a landslide victory in Davao City. While public opinion is split on the international investigation regarding his presidency, many of his supporters perceive his arrest as politically motivated, positioning him as a pawn in a larger political game involving current President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
Following Duterte's arrest, Marcos’s approval rating has sharply declined, plunging from 42% to 25% in just one month, while the daughter of Duterte, Sara Duterte—currently vice president—has seen her polling rise considerably. This political dynamic attests to the enduring influence of Duterte’s legacy, despite the grave allegations he faces on the global stage. As the country approaches election day, the ramifications of Duterte's incarceration and popularity will undoubtedly shape the Philippines' political landscape.
Nicholas Kaufman, Duterte's lawyer, recounts the unusual scene at the ICC where large volumes of fan mail had to be managed as the court dealt with the influx of correspondence. Meanwhile, in Davao City—the region Duterte served as mayor multiple times—thousands rallied in green to show their allegiance to their former leader as they anticipate the upcoming midterm elections where he stands a strong chance of reclaiming his mayoral position.
Despite his legal challenges, Duterte maintains a significant degree of popularity in the Philippines, with polls indicating that he is poised for a landslide victory in Davao City. While public opinion is split on the international investigation regarding his presidency, many of his supporters perceive his arrest as politically motivated, positioning him as a pawn in a larger political game involving current President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
Following Duterte's arrest, Marcos’s approval rating has sharply declined, plunging from 42% to 25% in just one month, while the daughter of Duterte, Sara Duterte—currently vice president—has seen her polling rise considerably. This political dynamic attests to the enduring influence of Duterte’s legacy, despite the grave allegations he faces on the global stage. As the country approaches election day, the ramifications of Duterte's incarceration and popularity will undoubtedly shape the Philippines' political landscape.
