MANILA, Philippines — Former President Rodrigo Duterte, currently detained at the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague, has endorsed two more Senate candidates for the 2025 midterm elections — retired Colonel Ariel Querubin and former Senator Gringo Honasan.
The announcement was made by his son, Davao City Rep. Paolo Duterte, during a meeting with supporters outside the ICC facility.
“He wants the Filipino people to continue supporting the PDP-Laban ‘Duterten’ senators, plus two. The final names he is endorsing are Querubin and Honasan,” the younger Duterte said.
PDP-Laban’s Duterten Slate Grows to 12
Prior to his arrest, Duterte had actively campaigned for 10 Senate hopefuls under the PDP-Laban party, which he chairs. His original slate includes:
Senators Bong Go and Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa
Jimmy Bondoc, singer-lawyer
Lawyer Raul Lambino
Actor Philip Salvador
Lawyer Jayvee Hinlo
Rep. Rodante Marcoleta (Sagip party-list)
Detained pastor Apollo Quiboloy
Former Executive Secretary Vic Rodriguez
Dr. Richard Mata
With the addition of Querubin and Honasan, Duterte’s Senate endorsements now total 12.
Duterte’s ICC Case and Health Status
The former president was arrested in Manila on March 11 over alleged crimes against humanity stemming from his controversial war on drugs. He was transferred to The Hague on March 12. The confirmation of charges hearing at the ICC is scheduled for September 24.
Congressman Duterte assured supporters that his father remains in good health while in detention.
“He’s alright, he looks like a bad boy. He looks like a mayor,” he quipped. “They’re taking care of him properly inside.”
Dutertes Still Active in 2025 Race
Despite the former president’s legal troubles, the Duterte family remains politically active. Rodrigo Duterte is seeking a comeback as Davao City mayor, while Rep. Paolo Duterte is running for reelection in the House of Representatives in the May 12, 2025 elections.