By Sheila Riikonen
Helsinki, Finland
Around 1,000 Filipinos and supporters gathered in Helsinki for a peaceful prayer rally calling for former President Rodrigo Duterte’s return to the Philippines.
The rally started at Kansalaistori Oodi, with participants marching to Senate Square (Senaatintori), chanting “Duterte! Duterte!” and holding banners demanding that the International Criminal Court (ICC) release Duterte from custody.
The rally remained peaceful and well-organized, with Helsinki police ensuring a smooth flow of the march.
A Call for Justice and Sovereignty
Organizers stressed that the demonstration was not just about supporting Duterte, but also about defending Philippine sovereignty.
“The ICC has no right to interfere in our justice system. President Duterte fought for us, and now we are fighting for him,” said Roselyn Salvador, a Filipina from Mindanao.
In their testimonials, rally participants explained that their support for Duterte is rooted in his
"contributions, including crime reduction, social welfare programs, and strong leadership."
Organizers including Roselyn Salvador, MJ Lucero, Alma Subrastas, and moderator Eduardo Navarro Ygot Jr. presided over prayers, testimonials, and patriotic songs like "Bayan Ko" and "Ipaglalaban Ko" at the event.
A peaceful walk passed through Mannerheimin aukio, Mannerheimintie, Aleksanterinkatu, before reaching Senaatintori.
The rally concluded with prayers, candle lighting, and unity chants, with participants raising their fists in solidarity.
The Helsinki rally is but one of the rallies being held by Duterte supporters in other key cities of Europe. There are reports that rallies by Filipinos were also held in Berlin, Hague and Madrid on Saturday, March 14.
“This is just the beginning. We will continue to stand for Duterte, for justice, and for the
Philippines,” community leader Eduardo Ygot Jr. said.
Former Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte is facing charges of "crime against humanity" before the International Court in the Hague and is now in ICC custody.
END.
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