BY ALEX ALAGON
BY ALEX ALAGON
FORMER President Rodrigo Duterte has conveyed a defiant message to his supporters in the International Criminal Court (ICC) detention facility in The Hague, stating, “If it is my destiny to be here, so be it. No apologies. No regrets.”
The message was relayed by his former wife, Elizabeth Zimmerman, who visited him on July 16, 2025, accompanied by their granddaughter, Bella (Vice Mayor Sebastian Duterte’s daughter).
Zimmerman shared highlights of their visit, noting that their conversation revolved around “mundane things.”
During her visit, Zimmerman also informed the former president about the upcoming “Free Duterte Now Prayer Rally” scheduled for July 19.
She also affirmed her intention to respect whatever decision the former president makes regarding cremation, a topic they had previously discussed.
In a message to the Filipino people, Zimmerman urged them to take action regarding the current situation in the Philippines.
“What is happening in the Philippines, I hope the Filipinos would do something about it. It is you, the masa, the citizens, who can do something. It is not us. That is why I am so happy you are here. Talagang we are grateful,” she said.
