SUPPORTERS of former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte gathered for a prayer vigil on Thursday night, March 13, in response to false rumors circulating on social media that authorities had raided his family home.
The rumors, which spread rapidly online, sparked concern and prompted the vigil as a show of support for the former president, who is currently detained at the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague, Netherlands.
However, the Davao Regional Police and Davao City Police swiftly and emphatically denied any involvement in such an operation. They confirmed that no raid or search warrant execution had taken place at the Duterte residence.
Several neighbors corroborated the police statement, confirming that the house was empty during the prayer vigil. They also reported seeing no evidence of any police activity in the area.
Despite the lack of any factual basis for the rumors, the vigil served as a poignant reminder of Duterte’s enduring popularity and the strong support he continues to enjoy among his followers. The gathering was a testament to the unwavering loyalty of his supporters, who expressed their concern for his well-being and their desire for his safe return to the Philippines.
Beyond prayers for Duterte’s health, the vigil also served as a platform for supporters to voice their calls for his return to the Philippines. The event underscored the deep political divide that continues to exist in the country, with Duterte’s supporters remaining steadfast in their belief in his leadership.
The incident highlights the power of misinformation and the potential for social media to spread false narratives. It also underscores the importance of verifying information before sharing it online, especially in sensitive situations involving public figures.
