Senator Supports Duterte’s Immediate Return
MANILA, Philippines — Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa has expressed his hope that if former President Rodrigo Duterte passes away, it will happen in the Philippines. He voiced his strong support for the immediate repatriation of Duterte from The Hague, Netherlands.
Dela Rosa backed Senator Robin Padilla’s resolution calling for the swift return of the 80-year-old former leader, who is currently under the custody of the International Criminal Court (ICC). Duterte faces charges related to alleged crimes against humanity linked to his administration’s war on drugs.
Calls for Repatriation on Grounds of Sovereignty and Compassion
For reasons of sovereignty, reconciliation, and humanitarian concern, Dela Rosa aligned himself with Padilla’s appeal for Duterte’s prompt return to the country. “What we understand is that President Duterte has become frail, very thin, and reportedly said that if he dies there, he wants to be cremated in The Hague,” the senator shared during a press briefing.
He added, “It’s deeply saddening news. I hope that if he passes, it will be here in the Philippines — not a foreign land. After all, he is a former president of our country.”
Vice President Sara Duterte previously revealed her father’s wish to be cremated should he die while awaiting trial at the ICC.
Focus on Duterte’s Safe Return, Not Case Dismissal
Dela Rosa emphasized that their aim is Duterte’s immediate return, not the dismissal of the charges against him. When asked about the concerns of drug war victims who remain fearful, he pointed out that Duterte is no longer the president and that the current administration is capable of ensuring their protection.
“The man is already suffering — he’s skin and bones — yet people still fear him. Don’t they have any compassion?” Dela Rosa questioned, highlighting the former leader’s fragile state.
Alongside Dela Rosa, Senator Christopher “Bong” Go has also signed Padilla’s resolution, which has yet to be formally filed in the Senate, sources said.
For more news and updates on Duterte’s immediate return to Philippines, visit Filipinokami.com.