Supporters of former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte gathered at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Dubai last Sunday, March 16, 2025, to show their solidarity by wearing black during the Filipino mass. The peaceful act was in response to Duterte’s arrest by the International Criminal Court (ICC), which has sparked reactions from his loyal followers worldwide.
As seen in various community groups on social media, many encouraged fellow Duterte supporters to attend the mass while adhering to UAE laws. A photo shared with The Global Filipino Magazine showed one woman holding a placard that read, “Bring PRRD Home.” The image has since circulated online, garnering mixed reactions from the Filipino community.
While the mass itself remained apolitical, the silent display of support raised questions regarding the limits of political expression in the UAE. The Global Filipino Magazine reached out to the Philippine Consulate General in Dubai for comments regarding the gathering and whether it constituted a violation of local laws.
In a March 13 advisory, the Philippine Embassy in Qatar issued a reminder urging Filipino nationals to respect local laws and customs concerning mass demonstrations and political grievances. This advisory was released shortly after Duterte’s arrest.
Several Dubai-based influencers have also taken to social media to remind Filipinos of the consequences of political gatherings in the UAE. Influencer Josie Conlu posted on TikTok:
“Wag po natin gawin ang matipon tipon patungkol sa political issues. Bawal na bawal po dito sa UAE.”
“Alam nating magkaiba ang batas ng Pilipinas at ng United Arab Emirates patungkol sa pagtitipon tipon or pagsama-sama ng mga grupo in public na may bahid pulitika.
Kung meron man kayong balak gawin o planong gawin patungkol dito, huwag na po nating ituloy dahil ito po ay may kaakibat na kaparusahan mula sa gobyerno ng UAE.
Huwag na po nating i-risk ang napakagandang oportunidad na ibinibigay po sa atin ng UAE. Dito nga po lagi nating sinasabi diba na dito nakahanap tayo ng ating second home.
Ang pinakamabisa na maibibigay po natin para sa ating pinakamamahal na Pilipinas ay dasal. Do not forget the power of prayers,” she added further.
@lovejoc Isang important reminder. Wag po natin gawin ang matioon tipon patungkol sa political issues. Bawal na bawal po dito sa UAE.
♬ original sound – Josie Conlu
Another prominent figure, RicoPinoy LoudnProud, who has nearly 800,000 followers on Facebook, warned his audience:
“As a Filipino, I am aware of the political scenario that is happening in our country these days. If I am only in the Philippines, I will be actively involved to show my support or to take a stand—but not here in the UAE. Please be reminded that we are not allowed to hold political gatherings here.”
His post included a flyer stating: “Unauthorized demonstrations, protests, or public gatherings are prohibited and illegal. The law shall strictly take its course.”
Meanwhile, Duterte supporters in Europe are preparing for a large gathering in The Hague on March 23, as confirmed by former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque. In a Zoom briefing, Roque announced that Dutch authorities have approved a permit for the event, though organizers are searching for a larger venue to accommodate the expected turnout of over 500 attendees.
“Before the birthday, there will definitely be a gathering. A permit and venue have been secured, but we are looking for a bigger space,” Roque said, adding that a second gathering may also take place on Duterte’s birthday, March 28.
Filipino groups from Austria, Switzerland, and Hungary have already arranged chartered buses to travel to The Hague for the event, while previous rally organizers in Prague are finalizing their participation.
