The Philippine government has voiced concern over the growing number of protests in Davao City, where supporters of former President Rodrigo Duterte continue to rally for his return. Malacañang, through Palace Press Officer Atty. Claire Castro, emphasized that President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. is closely monitoring the situation, stressing the importance of maintaining peace and preventing the spread of misinformation.
According to Castro, while the government acknowledges the people’s right to free speech and assembly, it also urges the public to remain calm and avoid actions that could further escalate tensions. The protests, which have been occurring daily, highlight the strong emotions among Duterte’s supporters, many of whom are demanding his immediate return to the Philippines.
One of the key concerns raised by Malacañang is the spread of unverified information regarding law enforcement activities. This came after reports surfaced that Davao City Mayor Sebastian Duterte allegedly made claims about a supposed police raid on his home. The Palace has warned against the dangers of misinformation, urging officials and the public alike to rely on official sources for updates on Duterte’s situation.
Authorities are closely monitoring the ongoing demonstrations, ensuring that public order is maintained while still respecting the people’s right to express their views. Security forces have been deployed in key areas of the city to prevent any untoward incidents, and local officials have been reminded to exercise responsible leadership to avoid unnecessary panic.
Malacañang reiterated that the government is committed to upholding democratic rights while also calling for sobriety and lawful discourse. As the situation develops, both national and local authorities are working to strike a balance between maintaining public order and allowing citizens to voice their concerns peacefully.
