Mass rallies in Philippines demand release of ex-President Duterte

Thousands of supporters of former president gather in capital Manila, other cities

By Islamuddin Sajid

ISLAMABAD (AA) - Thousands of Filipinos held rallies across the country on Friday demanding the release of former President Rodrigo Duterte, according to local media.

Duterte, arrested on March 11, is in the custody of the International Criminal Court in The Hague, Netherlands, facing a trial for alleged crimes against humanity during his war on drugs.

Thousands of his supporters gathered in the capital Manila and other cities across the country, held prayer rallies while marking the 80th birthday of the former president and demanding his immediate release, local media outlet Rappler reported.

Philippines Vice President and daughter of Duterte, Sara Duterte, in a statement wished birthday to her father and said she learned resilience and courage from her father.

"Thank you for teaching me the value of education. I wish you love, good health and happiness," she said in a video message posted on Facebook.

Sara is currently in the Dutch city helping to assemble a legal team for her father's case.

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