Filipino Community in New York Holds Prayer Gathering for Former President Duterte

Members of the Filipino community across the East Coast came together in a peaceful prayer gathering over the weekend in Astoria, Queens, to express support for former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, who is currently detained at the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague, Netherlands.

The event drew over 400 attendees, including Diehard Duterte Supporters (DDS) and backers of Vice President Sara Duterte. Many of them traveled from neighboring states to join the solemn gathering, marked by prayers, unity, and calls for national healing.

Spearheaded by various Mindanaoan groups, the event also featured the participation of Maisug USA, led by Atty. Arnedo Valera and Kar Erick Celis, who flew in from Canada to stand in solidarity with fellow supporters.

Emotions ran high during the program as participants offered prayers for the former president’s well-being and called for his return to the Philippines. The group voiced concerns over what they believe are unjust charges brought against Duterte at the ICC.

In addition to the prayer vigil, the gathering also included the formal endorsement of the PDP-Laban senatorial slate, with representatives from several candidates’ teams present to connect with the overseas Filipino community.

While the event largely focused on prayers and peaceful unity, some participants expressed frustration over the current state of the country and called for reforms, including appeals for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to step down.

Organizers emphasized that the gathering reflected the continuing involvement of overseas Filipinos in national issues and their hope for truth, justice, and progress in the Philippines.