In moments of uncertainty, humanity must remain our compass.

As the birthday of Rodrigo Duterte approaches, many Filipinos across the world pause not only to remember a leader, but to reflect on something deeper — dignity, compassion, and the enduring value of family. For millions, he is not only a former president.

He is Tatay Digong — a figure who, rightly or differently perceived, became a symbol of strength, discipline, and protection for those who believed in his leadership. Today, this appeal is not written in the language of politics, but in the language of humanity. Many Filipinos affectionately regard Former President Rodrigo Duterte as “Tatay Digong.” To his supporters, he symbolizes strength, discipline, and care for the nation. With his birthday approaching, the desire for compassionate and humane consideration of his situation is more poignant than ever. For those who believed in his leadership, his return home would not only be meaningful but deeply symbolic — it would represent a moment of dignity, reconciliation, and peace.

I write this not as a politician, nor as a person of influence, but as an ordinary Filipino living far from home.
Distance has a way of sharpening what truly matters.
I think of my family — of birthdays quietly celebrated across oceans, of voices heard through calls instead of shared tables, of the silent sacrifices that come with being away.
Today, as my mother celebrates her birthday, I am reminded of the profound simplicity of love:
that to be present, to be with one’s family, is not a privilege — it is a deeply human need.
And in that reflection, I ask myself:
If we recognize the sacredness of family in our own lives, should we not extend that same humanity to others — regardless of status, belief, or circumstance?

While the International Criminal Court (ICC) holds a vital role in upholding international law, accountability, and justice, it is imperative that any ongoing or future legal proceedings involving Mr. Duterte assure fair treatment, due process, and humanitarian consideration. Such actions are crucial not just for the integrity of the international legal system, but for honoring the human dignity of individuals involved.

Mr. Duterte, during his presidency, implemented controversial policies but also won the trust and affection of a significant segment of the Filipino population who viewed his leadership as transformative. For these supporters, ensuring he is treated fairly during legal proceedings is essential for justice and reconciliation.

We must acknowledge his supporters' perspectives alongside the call for accountability. As his supporters rally behind him, he should be granted a process that respects his rights and provides a fair assessment of any allegations against him.

We urge the international community and the ICC to embrace due process and humanitarian principles in handling Mr. Duterte's case. By doing so, we not only adhere to the standards of international justice but also allow for healing and understanding among the Filipino people.

Please join us in our call for fairness, due process, and humane treatment for Rodrigo Duterte in any ongoing or future proceedings with the ICC.

We acknowledge the vital role of the
International Criminal Court
in upholding international law, accountability, and justice.
Justice must be pursued.
But justice, to remain just, must also remain humane.
It must be guided not only by law, but by the principles that give law its meaning:
Fair and impartial due process
Presumption of innocence
Respect for dignity
Consideration of age, health, and humanitarian context
Without these, justice risks losing the very humanity it seeks to defend.
📊 A Nation of Diverse Voices
During his presidency, Former President Duterte maintained significant public support, with approval ratings at times exceeding 70–80% among Filipinos.
This reflects a reality that cannot be ignored:
A substantial portion of the Filipino people placed their trust, hope, and belief in his leadership.
While perspectives differ — and accountability remains essential —
those voices are also part of the human story that surrounds this moment.
True justice listens to complexity.
It does not silence it.

A Moment for Compassion

As his birthday approaches, we humbly offer this appeal:

Let this moment be guided not by division,

but by compassion.

Let Tatay Digong be granted the opportunity to spend this deeply personal occasion in the Philippines —

in dignity, in peace, and in the presence of his family.

Not as an act that weakens justice,

but as an act that strengthens its humanity.

🤝 Our Call

We respectfully call upon:

The international community

Legal institutions

Decision-makers involved

To ensure that all actions taken are anchored in:

Fairness

Transparency

Due process

Humane consideration

🕊️ A Final Thought

This petition is not an argument against justice.

It is a reminder of what justice must never forget:

That behind every case is a human being.

That behind every decision is a ripple that touches families, communities, and nations.

And that in a world often divided,

compassion remains one of the few forces that can still unite us.

✊ Take Action

If you believe in:

✔ Justice with humanity

✔ Fairness with dignity

✔ Compassion without division

We invite you to stand with us:

Sign this petition and help us ensure justice that is truly just.