Duterte Family Reflects on Independence Day
Davao City first district Rep. Paolo Z. Duterte marked Independence Day with a heartfelt message of national pride and personal pain. On June 12, he reminded Filipinos that Independence Day is more than a celebration; it is a solemn acknowledgment of the courage and sacrifice that secured the nation’s freedom. “This day is a reminder that our liberty was born out of unity, compassion, and an unwavering love for the nation,” he said in Filipino. “It is also our responsibility to uphold and defend the principles our ancestors fought for.”
Rep. Duterte also addressed the ongoing detention of his father, former President Rodrigo R. Duterte, at the International Criminal Court in The Hague. He described this situation as an infringement on the country’s sovereignty, stating that his father had been “kidnapped by an administration that disregards due process and the pillars of a democratic society.”
“While we commemorate the sacrifices of our heroes, my father continues to be imprisoned—without due process, without respect for our judicial system,” he said. This painful reality, he added, shows that the struggle for justice remains urgent and ongoing.
Calls for Justice and National Unity
The lawmaker urged Filipinos to continue fighting for a future worthy of their heroes’ sacrifices and his father’s legacy. His call to action emphasized justice, peace, and national progress as key goals.
Joining him in expressing their sentiments were his brothers, newly elected Davao City Councilor Rodrigo “Rigo” II and second district Rep. Vincent Omar Duterte. In his first Independence Day message as a councilor, Rigo acknowledged the day’s bittersweet nature for their family. While the nation celebrates freedom, their grandfather remains detained in a foreign prison, far from the country he loved and served.
“As the grandchild of a former President who dedicated his entire life to public service, I cannot deny that this day also carries a tinge of sorrow,” Rigo said. “Yet, even in this situation, we must not forget the true meaning of Independence Day.”
He added that true freedom is not simply the absence of chains but the courage to stand for what is right, even when it means standing alone. “Today, we once again honor the heroism of our ancestors—the Filipinos who bravely fought for our nation, our dignity, and our future. Let us unite, take a stand, and press on for Davao, the Philippines, and the future,” Rigo said.
Continuing the Fight for Genuine Freedom
Rep. Vincent Omar Duterte echoed this call for unity and resilience. He reminded the public that the fight for genuine freedom is ongoing and urged everyone to defend the dignity of leaders who have faithfully served the nation, including their father.
“I come before you not only as the newly elected representative of the second district. I also speak as the grandchild of a father of the nation—former President Duterte,” Omar said. “And as he now faces charges outside our country, I humbly ask for your prayers, support, and resolve.”
He emphasized that the dignity of a leader who fought for peace, order, and Filipino pride should not be trampled. “He was not perfect, but he does not deserve to be forgotten—or judged by foreigners who do not fully understand our nation’s struggles,” Omar added.
Remembering the heroes who gave their lives for today’s freedom, Omar called on all Filipinos to remain inspired by their courage and conviction. He urged a continued fight for true freedom anchored in dignity, justice, and compassion for all.
For more news and updates on Duterte family Independence Day, visit Filipinokami.com.