Senator Go rallies Duterte supporters, urges continued unity and prayers

Senator Christopher ‘Bong’ Go called on Filipinos to remain united and to continue praying for former president Rodrigo Duterte as thousands gathered in Davao City for a solidarity walk marking Duterte’s 81st birthday.

The late afternoon activity was held separately from the official 89th Araw ng Dabaw parade earlier, highlighting that it was organized specifically as a show of support for Duterte.

The event took place amid ongoing developments involving Duterte abroad, which have kept him away from Davao,adding an emotional tone to the gathering.

Go recalled Duterte’s relationship with Muslim Filipinos, stressing his approach of inclusivity and equal treatment in governance.

He cited past initiatives, including Duterte’s directive to assist underprivileged Muslim communities, such as facilitating access to Hajj for those in need.

“Ako nga mismo ang inutusan niya noon na pumunta sa mga mosque para sa mga mahihirap na Muslim na gustong mag-Hajj,” he said, adding that Duterte viewed Filipinos of different faiths as one.

“Alam nyo ito yung sa tingin ko na pinaka malungkot na birthday sa buhay ni Tatay Digong,” he said, recalling that Duterte often avoided public festivities. “Simpleng tao lang yang si Tatay… Napakasimpleng tao.”

He shared that Duterte would usually decline birthday events and instead instruct that assistance be given to the poor.

Go said the current situation is different, pointing to Duterte’s absence and isolation. “Pero iba po ang sitwasyon ngayon… Mag-isa lang po siya. Wala siyang kausap, wala siyang kasama.”

He then urged supporters to continue praying for Duterte. “Pakiusap ko lang po sa inyo, ipagdasal po natin si Tatay Digong… Huwag tayong tumigil sa pagdadasal sa kanyang kaligtasan at kalusugan.”

Go described the situation as deeply emotional for supporters. “Isa ito sa pinakamalungkot na birthday ni Tatay Digong na mapalayo po sa ating mga kababayan,” he said.

He also thanked Davao residents and supporters for attending the gathering and encouraged continued support for Duterte’s family, noting their ongoing role in public service. The senator acknowledged the presence of longtime allies and officials who have worked with Duterte over the years.

“Ang wish ko po ngayon sa birthday ni Tatay Digong, sana makauwi na siya dito sa ating bayan,” he said, noting Duterte’s age. “81 years old na po si Tatay Digong.”

He added, “Sa totoo lang, sabi ko nga harmless na si Tatay Digong,” before reiterating his appeal: “So nakikiusap po ako sa inyo, huwag po tayong tumigil na ipagdasal si Tatay Digong.”