MANILA – Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio expressed hope for the release of her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, who marked his 80th birthday on Friday while in detention.
In a statement sent to Panay News, Duterte-Carpio has called on the supporters of her father to pray for his good health while detained in The Hague in the Netherlands.
“Sa kanyang pagdiriwang ng kanyang 80th birthday, huwag nating kalimutan na ipagdasal sa Diyos na sana ay biyayaan pa siya ng mas magandang kalusugan at mas mahabang buhay,” said Duterte-Carpio.
“Hilingin din natin sa Diyos na sana ay makauwi na agad si Pangulong Duterte sa Pilipinas,” she added. “Aking taos-pusong pasasalamat sa lahat ng mga Pilipino na sumusuporta at nagmamahal kay dating Pangulong Rodrigo Duterte.”
Duterte-Carpio further said that the protests and gatherings by the supporters show the strength, courage, and the commitment of Filipino people.
“Sa mga kababayan natin sa Pilipinas, The Netherlands at iba’t ibang panig ng mundo—napakalaking bagay para kay Pangulong Duterte ang pagtitipon ninyo para sa kanyang pag-uwi at kaarawan,” Duterte-Carpio said.
“Sana ay magpatuloy din ang inyong suporta at pagmamahal sa ating dating Pangulo hanggang sa darating na halalan ng ating mga senador,” she added.
Meanwhile, Malacañang wished the former President for a long life, a good health, and good fortune.
“We wish him more years to come, good health, and good fortune. Kailangan po niya ‘yan,” said Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Atty. Claire Castro.
Duterte, who was born on March 28, 1945 in Leyte, is currently facing charges for murder as a crime against humanity before the International Criminal Court.
The former Chief Executive was arrested in the Philippines on March 11 and was immediately brought to the Dutch city, a hub for international law, shortly after.
The ICC said that while the former president could seek interim release, he must adhere to “measures”, including returning to the court when ordered by the judges./PN
