Bishop Patricio Buzon of the Diocese of Bacolod described the detention of former president Rodrigo Duterte at the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague, The Netherlands, as a spiritual opportunity for the former leader.
“I strongly believe that his detention in The Hague is a special grace. It is a year of grace. This could be the last chance for him to return to God,” Buzon said in his homily during a Holy Mass at the San Sebastian Cathedral on March 23.
Citing Scripture, Buzon noted that Duterte, who turns 80 on March 28, is living on “borrowed time.” He emphasized that prison can be a transformative experience, more powerful than any spiritual retreat.
While Duterte’s supporters argue that the charges against him are politically motivated and continue to push for his return to the Philippines, Buzon urged them to reconsider what is truly best for their former leader.
“True love seeks the good of the beloved. If they truly love their Tatay Digong, they will do well to leave him in peace where he is now,” he said.
He reminded Duterte’s followers that while they profess unwavering loyalty, God’s love for him is far greater. The bishop also warned against blind fanaticism, stating that it is causing deep division among Filipinos.
Buzon called on the public to prioritize love for the country over partisan loyalties and to resist the spread of misinformation.
The former president is currently detained in The Hague, facing crimes against humanity charges before the ICC. He was arrested by the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol) and local authorities on March 11.