INTERNATIONAL – Ex-President Duterte wins Philippines’ mayoral election from jail cell in Netherlands
Rodrigo Duterte, former President of the Philippines, has won re-election as mayor of Davao City – his family’s political stronghold – despite being behind bars in The Hague, Netherlands.
He is currently facing charges at the International Criminal Court (ICC) related to his violent “war on drugs,” which left thousands dead.
With over 60% of votes counted, 80-year-old Duterte had an overwhelming lead of 405,000 votes, compared to just 49,000 for his closest rival. The result comes amid rising political tensions between the Duterte family and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s administration.
Duterte’s 2016 – 2022 presidency was marked by a crackdown on drugs that drew strong criticism from human rights groups. Yet, he maintained strong support, especially from working-class Filipinos who saw him as a leader willing to take bold action. Even after his arrest in March, thousands rallied in his support. On his 80th birthday, crowds lit candles and held vigils in Davao and other cities.
One supporter, a civil servant from Taguig City, shared: “He’s the only leader who truly fought for us. His arrest hurt us deeply.”
It’s unclear how Duterte will be sworn in as mayor. His daughter, Sara Duterte – who was impeached as Vice President in February – said his legal team is working on a solution. If he remains unable to assume office, his son Sebastian, who is leading in the vice-mayoral race, may take over.
Sara Duterte is fighting for her political survival. She faces trial in the senate on charges of fund misuse and for making threatening remarks toward President Marcos, his wife, and the House Speaker. If convicted by two-thirds of the 24-seat senate, she will be banned from future office, ending her 2028 presidential hopes.
Election results showed a mixed picture for both the Duterte and Marcos camps. Five pro-Duterte candidates were on track to win Senate seats, while six Marcos allies were projected to win – fewer than expected. Independent and opposition voices also gained unexpected ground.
Sara Duterte pledged to keep pushing back: “We will hold the government accountable and be a strong, constructive opposition.”
(Rewritten from The Guardian)
