Dear Honorable Members of the International Criminal Court Jury,

I humbly write to you as a Filipino citizen and a mother of three, with a sincere plea from the heart.

Please allow our former President, Rodrigo Roa Duterte, to return to our beloved homeland. He is now an 80-year-old man—an age at which imprisonment may no longer serve any meaningful purpose, especially considering the limited years left in his life.

President Duterte led our country with firm resolve, particularly in his campaign against illegal drugs. Many ordinary Filipinos, including myself, genuinely supported his efforts and felt a newfound sense of safety and order during his administration. While some political figures may have used the issue of alleged extrajudicial killings to discredit him, the reality for many of us was a community that felt safer, where children could walk the streets without fear.

Under his leadership, numerous drug users surrendered and were given a chance to recover in rehabilitation centers, including the mega facility built during his term. Those involved in drug trafficking were arrested and held accountable. He consistently addressed the nation, openly and firmly standing by his policies in the pursuit of a drug-free Philippines.

It is also important to note that the criticisms largely came from a small group of political opponents—figures such as Senators Trillanes, Hontiveros, and others who may have personal or political motives. These do not represent the voice of the majority of Filipinos who deeply respect and admire President Duterte for his sincerity and dedication.

We, the Filipino people, love our President Duterte.

He is now in the twilight of his life. After all his sacrifices and efforts to bring change and peace to our country, he does not deserve to be treated with hostility or judgment. We respectfully appeal for understanding, compassion, and fairness.

Please let our beloved former President come home. Let him spend his remaining years in the land he served so passionately. Let us, the Filipino people, handle matters that pertain to our own justice system.

We believe in justice, but we also believe in mercy. President Duterte’s legacy—of honor, discipline, and love for country—is one we will forever remember. He kissed our flag, stood by our soldiers and policemen, and always spoke with the kind of conviction only someone who truly loves his people can have.

We respectfully request that you allow the Philippines to determine his fate. In our hearts, he has done no wrong.

Thank you for taking the time to hear the voice of a mother who, during his presidency, felt peace and hope.

With deep respect and hope,

Hamil Lee Capatayan
Filipino Citizen and Mother of Three