18-3-2025 (MANILA) A profound political rift has emerged in the Philippines as Sebastian Duterte, the Mayor of Davao City, launched a scathing critique of President Marcos’s decision to permit International Criminal Court (ICC) proceedings against his father, former President Rodrigo Duterte.
Speaking at the 88th Araw ng Dabaw festivities, the younger Duterte pointedly recalled how his father had weathered fierce opposition to grant the late Ferdinand Marcos Sr. a controversial burial at the Heroes’ Cemetery. This historical gesture, he argued, now stands in stark contrast to the current administration’s stance.
Malacañang Palace, through Press Officer Claire Castro, mounted a measured defence, emphasising that whilst gratitude has its place, it cannot supersede legal obligations. Castro noted that President Marcos had previously expressed appreciation for the former administration’s decisions regarding his father’s interment.
The political drama has taken an intriguing turn with former presidential spokesman Harry Roque’s appearance at The Hague, preceding Duterte’s scheduled ICC hearing. Roque, who fled the Philippines following a contempt order from Congress, has become a focal point of the unfolding situation.
In a parallel development, the Alliance of Concerned Teachers has questioned the timing of President Marcos’s decision to substantially increase military allowances. The organisation suggests this could be a strategic move to maintain military loyalty during this politically sensitive period, particularly when educators’ salary adjustments remain modest.
The administration’s handling of public demonstrations has remained measured, with Palace officials acknowledging Duterte’s supporters’ right to protest whilst warning against actions that might constitute sedition. Castro specifically addressed Senator Ronald dela Rosa’s position, suggesting his support for the former president could have been more demonstrative.
The situation has sparked broader discussions about governance, loyalty, and justice in the Philippine political landscape, with the administration maintaining that adherence to law must prevail over personal or political debts of gratitude.
