MANILA, Philippines — Former President Rodrigo Duterte has expressed his wish to be cremated if he dies while in prison at The Hague, according to his daughter, Vice President Sara Duterte.
In an interview with reporters on Tuesday, Vice President Duterte said her father requested that his ashes be brought back to the Philippines should he pass away in The Netherlands.
She also quoted Duterte as saying he would “visit” her if his wishes were not fulfilled.
The former president, now 80 years old, is facing charges of crimes against humanity at the International Criminal Court (ICC) related to his administration’s controversial anti-drug campaign, which led to thousands of deaths.
Sara Duterte said her father’s request reflects normal preparations for someone of his age. “Despite being thinner, he still looked good,” she added, referring to her father’s current physical condition.
The Vice President also addressed separate allegations related to a reported incident involving her and her father allegedly carrying firearms during a visit to the compound of detained televangelist Apollo Quiboloy.
She challenged whistleblower Michael Maurillo, also known as Rene, to formally file charges so they can respond accordingly in court.
Duterte also commented on the political situation surrounding her and her family.
Referencing a recent Social Weather Stations survey indicating that 42 percent of Filipinos do not support her impeachment, she labeled the proceedings as political persecution and harassment.
She expressed hope that the senator-judges would evaluate the case based on its legal merits.
Office of the Vice President (OVP) spokesperson Ruth Castelo confirmed that Vice President Duterte’s recent trip to The Hague was a personal visit and self-funded. Castelo emphasized that Duterte continued to manage her duties while abroad and remained accessible to her staff and constituents.
