From behind the walls of an international detention facility, former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has made his final political moves for the upcoming 2025 elections. Despite his confinement at The Hague, Duterte’s influence on Philippine politics remains undiminished as he completes his Senate endorsement list with two military veterans.
The surprise announcement came through his son, Davao City Congressman Paolo Duterte, who revealed the final additions while speaking to supporters gathered outside the International Criminal Court detention facility.
“My father extends his thanks for your continued support,” the younger Duterte told the crowd. “He wants all Filipinos to back the PDP Laban ‘DuterTen’ senators, plus two more. It’s final now – he’s endorsing Querubin and Honasan.”
The two new endorsements – retired Colonel Ariel Querubin and former senator Gringo Honasan – bring Duterte’s complete Senate slate to 12 candidates. Both men have strong military backgrounds, reflecting the former president’s consistent preference for officials with security expertise.
This political maneuver comes at a critical time for the former president. Duterte was arrested in Manila on March 11 on charges of crimes against humanity related to his controversial war on drugs. He arrived at the Dutch detention facility the next day, where he awaits his confirmation of charges hearing scheduled for September 24.
Before his arrest, Duterte had already endorsed 10 Senate candidates from his PDP-Laban party:
- Senator Bong Go
- Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa
- Lawyer-singer Jimmy Bondoc
- Lawyer Raul Lambino
- Actor Philip Salvador
- Lawyer Jayvee Hinlo
- Sagip party-list Representative Rodante Marcoleta
- Detained pastor Apollo Quiboloy
- Former executive secretary Vic Rodriguez
- Dr. Richard Mata
According to Congressman Duterte, his father remains in good spirits despite over a month in detention.
“He’s doing fine. He looks more like a bad boy now – he looks like a mayor again,” the lawmaker said with a hint of pride. “He’s in good condition. They’re taking proper care of him inside.”
The political drama doesn’t end with Senate endorsements. Both the elder Duterte and his son “Pulong” will appear on election ballots on May 12. The former president is seeking the Davao City mayor position – a role he held for over 22 years before becoming president – while his son aims for reelection to Congress.
The 2025 elections will test whether Duterte’s political clout remains strong enough to shape national politics, even as he faces serious international charges.
Reshuff PH
Latest News In The Philippines brought to you by Reshuff PH
