Expected to Hold Mayoral Seat, Rodrigo Duterte Anticipated to Once Again Lead Davao City

Six weeks ago, a van loaded with flowers and birthday cards arrived at the International Criminal Court (ICC) detention center in The Hague for Rodrigo Duterte, the former president of the Philippines and his 80th birthday. He is accused of crimes against humanity and faces the possibility of spending the rest of his life in prison. Many people in the Philippines still support him, with thousands wearing the color associated with his political party. Despite his popularity, his recent arrest and extradition have divided the Philippines, with some supporting the international investigation and others believing it to be political persecution. Duterte’s family is also affected by this, and his case is influencing the midterm elections in which his daughter, Sara Duterte, is a candidate. However, life in The Hague for Duterte is very different from his life before, and the Netherlands may face challenges to accommodate his needs.

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/05/11/world/asia/duterte-davao-mayor-election.html