Cebuano supporters celebrate Duterte's 80th birthday with unity rallies

CEBU, Philippines — Cebuano supporters of former president Rodrigo Roa Duterte joined thousands across the country and abroad in celebrating his 80th birthday while continuing their call to bring him home. Duterte is facing charges for crimes against humanity at the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague.

Fondly referred to as "Tatay Digong," Duterte continues to receive overwhelming expressions of loyalty. Several prayer rallies and caravans have taken place since his arrest, with more events held last night and today in honor of his milestone birthday.

On the evening of March 27, a mananita unity ride was held from the Cansaga Bridge in Paknaan, Mandaue City to Danao City, Duterte's hometown. Supporters gathered at the Danao City boardwalk for a prayer rally.

"Aron ipakita ang atong bug-os nga suporta kang Tatay Digong sa iyang adlaw nga natawhan! Ipakita nato nga ang gugma sa masa bisan walay sugo — buhi ug lig-on gihapon," organizers stated.

The Hakbang ng Maisug-Cebu group spearheaded the birthday salubong, starting with free t-shirt printing and live band performances as they awaited participants for the unity ride and mananita at midnight.

Former Cebu City mayor Mike Rama, despite facing questions about his loyalty to Duterte, also hosted a separate birthday salubong at the Rama compound. He invited supporters of Partido Barug-BagOng Sugbo-Team Rama and other Duterte supporters to a candle-lighting activity tonight.

In Cebu City's South District, venues for candle-lighting events include Barangay Tisa in front of the Barangay Hall; Guadalupe at Erik Espina's residence; Poblacion Pardo tennis court; and San Nicolas parish area.

In the North District, events are set at Cogon Ramos Barangay Hall; Tejero in front of Lite Shipping building; Maracas in Lahug; and Barangay San Jose gym.

Two other significant events are scheduled in Cebu City today--a solidarity walk from Plaza Independencia to Fuente Osmeña Circle at 3 p.m. and a gathering at Plaza Independencia at 7 p.m.

Following last night’s unity ride and mananita, a community run-walk for peace and unity is also planned. Former Olympian Mary Joy Tabal and Dr. Gerry Mayo of Spectrum Runners’ Club will lead the 5-kilometer event at 7 p.m. outside the Mandaue City Sports Complex.

The Maisug-Cebu group will hold a birthday tribute this afternoon at Pasilong sa Paraiso, North Reclamation Area in Mandaue City. The event will also feature the signing of a manifesto of support for Duterte.

A separate event led by former Mandaue mayor Jonas Cortes will follow at the same venue. According to sources, a portion of the event will be dedicated to Duterte’s birthday.

In Cebu, Duterte officially endorsed four mayoralty candidates and their respective parties: Rama for Cebu City, Cortes for Mandaue City, Paz Radaza for Lapu-Lapu City, and Binggol Villo for Consolacion, as well as Cebu gubernatorial candidate Pamela Baricuatro.

Supporters in other areas, including Liloan, Moalboal, Cordova, Poro (Camotes), Naga, San Fernando, and Toledo, have also organized birthday celebrations and prayer rallies.

Organizers encouraged participants to wear green, bring food, candles, and pictures of Duterte.

"Magsuot ng GREEN at ipakita natin ang ating pagkakaisa at pasasalamat sa mga makulay at makatarungang hakbang na ginawa niya para sa ating bansa," organizers urged. – FPL (CEBU NEWS)