Former actress Rica Peralejo has voiced her opinion regarding the recent arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte, urging his supporters to be transparent about their stance instead of hiding behind calls for unity and prayer.
In a social media post, Peralejo emphasized the need for mutual respect among Filipinos, regardless of their political beliefs. However, she criticized those who disguise their support for Duterte under neutral statements about national healing and prayer, particularly in light of his pending trial at the International Criminal Court (ICC).
While recognizing the right of Duterte supporters to defend him, Peralejo pointed out what she sees as hypocrisy among those who avoid directly expressing their political stance.
“Respect for Duterte supporters. Respect for those who do not. But I have none for those who are secretly for Duterte, but cloak their statements with ideologies such as ‘let’s pray for the nation,’” Peralejo stated.
She also questioned why similar calls for prayer and unity were absent when thousands of lives were lost due to extrajudicial killings (EJKs) under Duterte’s war on drugs.
“Sabihin na lang kasi nang diretso. Kasi wala namang call to prayer nung panahon ng EJK,” she added.
Duterte’s arrest and extradition to The Hague, Netherlands have sparked heated debates across the country. His loyal supporters have launched protests, condemning the ICC’s legal actions as foreign intervention, while human rights advocates see this as a historic moment for justice.
Demonstrations from both pro- and anti-Duterte groups are expected to escalate over the coming days. Some lawmakers allied with the former president have also been vocal in criticizing the Marcos administration, claiming Duterte was “betrayed” and unjustly targeted.
Peralejo, who has been vocal about political and social issues in the past, continues to use her platform to advocate for accountability and truth. While her statement has drawn both support and criticism, many netizens echoed her sentiments, emphasizing that justice should be pursued regardless of political alliances.
As Duterte awaits his official trial before the ICC, the political climate in the Philippines remains tense, with his legal team preparing a defense against the crimes against humanity charges filed against him.
