Ex-President Duterte to attend indignation rally in Cebu

Local

FORMER President Rodrigo Duterte is expected to attend the Cebu People’s Indignation Rally on Saturday, February 22, in Mandaue City.

Organized by Hakbang ng Maisug Cebu, the event will take place at Pasilong sa Paradise and is expected to draw at least 20,000 attendees, though organizers believe the number could double.

The program will start at 4:30 p.m. and will run until 11:00 p.m., though Duterte’s presence may extend the schedule.

Security and Traffic Plans in Place

With the large expected turnout, organizers have worked with authorities to implement security measures and manage traffic flow.

Road closures and rerouting schemes have been arranged, and additional police personnel will be deployed to ensure public safety.

During a press conference on Friday, February 21, in Mandaue City, Hakbang ng Maisug Cebu confirmed Duterte’s attendance.

The panel included content creators June Abines and EB Jugalbot, Atty. Irene Caballes of Transparency, Accountability, Peace, and Security, and Cathy Maluya, former director of the Office of Participatory Government.

Jugalbot said the rally will feature performances before the formal program, and each speaker will be given at least one minute on stage.

A representative from detained senatorial candidate Pastor Apollo Quiboloy’s camp has also been invited to deliver a message on his behalf.

Political figure

Although organizers insist the rally is a social movement, Jugalbot confirmed that politicians, particularly those aligned with Duterte and Partido Demokratiko Pilipino (PDP), have been invited.

Among those who have confirmed their attendance are PDP senatorial candidates Rodante Marcoleta and Vic Rodriguez.

Former Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama told MyTV Cebu that he will join and speak on governance issues affecting both Cebu and the nation.

Support for VP

While organizers claim the event is not politically driven, Caballes acknowledged that it also serves as a show of support for Vice President Sara Duterte, who is facing impeachment proceedings.

She argued that the impeachment process is a distraction from more pressing national concerns, such as economic instability and governance challenges.

Hakbang ng Maisug Cebu denied allegations that the rally is government-funded, stating that it is made possible through contributions from supporters and volunteers.

Attendees have been encouraged to bring their own food and water, and organizers emphasized that no “hakot” or mobilized supporters have been arranged.

Jugalbot described the rally as a grassroots initiative, aiming to amplify public sentiment and push for reforms and transparency.(MyTVCebu)