The Philippine National Police (PNP) will deploy security forces in the Davao region on March 28, coinciding with the 80th birthday of former President Rodrigo Duterte.
According to a report by RH Edniel Parrosa, PNP Spokesperson PBGen. Jean Fajardo stated that a prayer rally is set to take place at Rotary Plaza, New Corella, Davao del Norte, on the same day as Duterte's birthday.
Moreover, the PNP expects a large turnout at the gathering, especially since it is a stronghold of the former president.
Fajardo further stated that the Police Regional Office 11 is in talks with the local government of Davao to finalize the security coverage.
The Public Safety and Security office has yet to provide an estimate of the expected attendees, including a confirmed list of the personalities who would attend the said rally.
It would be held weeks after Duterte was arrested by Philippine authorities, upon his arrival at the NAIA Terminal 3. He was later transferred to The Hague in the Netherlands, pursuant to a warrant issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC).
Following the arrest, approximately 30,000 of his supporters rallied in Davao City.
Duterte is facing accusations of crimes against humanity, said to have been committed in the Philippines between November 1, 2011, and March 16, 2019.
