Supporters of former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte are preparing for a massive global gathering on Friday, March 28, to commemorate his 80th birthday. The event, titled “Rody @ 80: A Global Celebration of his Life and Legacy,” is expected to draw thousands of attendees both in the Philippines and abroad.
Major Event in Davao City
In Davao City, where Duterte served as mayor for decades, organizers have planned a grand event at the intersection of Roxas Avenue and C.M. Recto Street. Authorities have implemented partial road closures starting at 1 a.m. on March 26 to accommodate the gathering. The City Transport and Traffic Management Office has announced that key streets such as C.M. Recto Ave. (Claveria St.) and Roxas Ave. will be affected.
A large covered platform has been set up at the event site, where a program will take place starting at 3 p.m. on March 28. Ateneo de Davao University has announced asynchronous classes on this day due to the expected crowd and the prayer rally.
Nationwide and Global Support
Duterte’s supporters from all 27 provinces and 33 cities in Mindanao have organized similar gatherings, with events also planned in various international locations. These gatherings reflect the strong following of the former president, especially amid recent developments regarding the International Criminal Court’s arrest warrant issued against him on March 11.
Volunteer Efforts and Free T-Shirts
In preparation for the event, volunteers and shop owners have offered free T-shirt printing services to supporters. Designs feature slogans such as “I stand with FPRRD,” “Bring FPRRD Home,” and Duterte’s well-known quote, “I’m not a Filipino for nothing.”
One volunteer reported that an anonymous sponsor provided 150 free T-shirts, with at least 80 more brought in by supporters for printing. Aside from T-shirts, badges and pins will also be distributed to attendees.
A Gathering of Unity and Support
As Duterte faces legal challenges, his supporters have been holding prayer rallies and noise barrages across the country. The upcoming March 28 gathering is expected to be one of the largest demonstrations of support for the former leader.
With thousands expected to join both physically and virtually, Rody @ 80 will serve as a significant moment for Duterte’s supporters to express their solidarity and appreciation for his leadership.
