Supporters of former President Rodrigo Duterte are planning simultaneous prayer rallies and gatherings across the globe on Friday, March 28, to celebrate his 80th birthday — with the goal of setting a new Guinness World Record.
Former presidential spokesperson Salvador Panelo said during a media forum that organizers want to achieve the record for the largest number of people commemorating an event at the same time in multiple locations worldwide.
Former Duterte spokesman Harry Roque confirmed that at least 109 locations in and outside the Philippines will participate in the coordinated events. One major rally is expected to take place at the Edsa Shrine.
Panelo, when asked about his birthday wish for Duterte, said he hopes for the former president’s return to the country.
Duterte, who led a controversial drug war during his term, was arrested at Ninoy Aquino International Airport on March 11 and flown to The Hague, Netherlands the same day. He is currently facing trial over alleged human rights violations. A pretrial hearing was held on March 14, with a confirmation of charges scheduled for September 23. Duterte may seek interim release before then.
Official government figures state that at least 6,000 people died during the anti-drug campaign, while international bodies and rights groups estimate the toll to be between 12,000 and 30,000, citing concerns over extrajudicial killings.
