On March 11, the faithful gathered at the Ina ng Lupang Pangako Parish in Quezon City, Philippines, for a poignant mass that resonated with deep emotions and a sense of justice. The occasion was not just a typical Sunday service; it was a heartfelt expression of gratitude to God following the arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte by the International Criminal Court (ICC).
The atmosphere was charged with both sorrow and hope as attendees, many of whom had lost loved ones during Duterte’s controversial war on drugs, placed photographs of their deceased family members on a table near the altar. This visual tribute served as a powerful reminder of the human cost associated with the former president’s policies, which claimed thousands of lives across the nation.
Jack Alvarez, a pastor at the Komunidad kay Kristo sa Payatas, shared his perspective on the event, noting, "Many were happy that they were finally getting justice." His church, located just a short walk from the parish, has been a sanctuary for the impoverished residents of Payatas, an area heavily affected by the violence of the drug war. Alvarez recounted chilling memories of police shootings, where innocent lives were tragically lost under the guise of law enforcement.
As the evening unfolded, the congregation participated in a moving ritual known as “Pananagutan,” or “Brother to Brother.” In this moment, the community united in song, singing in Tagalog, “We are all responsible for each other. We are all gathered by God to be with him.” This sentiment encapsulated the spirit of solidarity and the call for accountability that echoed throughout the church.
While many Christians celebrated the ICC’s actions as a step towards justice, the nation remains divided. Supporters of Duterte took to the streets in various regions, lighting candles and holding placards that read, “We Stand with Duterte” and “We Love You, Tatay.” This stark contrast highlights the ongoing polarization within the Filipino Christian community regarding the legacy of Duterte’s administration.
Maria Palacio, a pastor affiliated with the prophetic ministry House of Unlimited Grace, expressed her unwavering support for Duterte, stating, “I think he’s the best” among all presidents she has witnessed in her lifetime. Palacio’s perspective reflects a segment of the population that believes Duterte’s tough stance on crime brought a semblance of safety to their communities. However, this view is met with considerable opposition from those who argue that his methods were fundamentally flawed and morally indefensible.
Aldrin Peñamora, director of the Philippine Council of Evangelical Churches’ Justice, Peace, and Reconciliation Commission, noted that evangelical reactions to the ICC’s arrest vary significantly, often influenced by regional politics. This division underscores the intricate relationship between faith and politics in the Philippines, where personal beliefs and community dynamics often shape public opinion.
On social media, some Duterte supporters have pointed fingers at the current administration, suggesting that President Bongbong Marcos is to blame for the former president’s legal troubles. The political landscape remains fraught with tension, as misinformation and conspiracy theories circulate, further complicating the narrative surrounding Duterte’s arrest.
Gabby Go Balauag, a staff member at Hope of Glory Community Church, voiced a critical perspective on the moral implications of supporting Duterte’s policies. He emphasized that Christians must engage in thoughtful reflection about the sanctity of life and the importance of compassion. Balauag’s sentiments resonate with many who advocate for a more humane approach to governance and justice.
As the legal proceedings against Duterte unfold, with his first court appearance set for September, church leaders are called to foster unity within their congregations. Peñamora expressed a desire for the church to remain focused on the victims of the drug war, urging congregants to support those who have suffered loss and to advocate for justice.
In Payatas, Alvarez and his church community continue their mission to provide support for families affected by the drug war. They distribute rice packs weekly to those who have been orphaned or widowed, demonstrating a commitment to living out their faith through action. “There is no part of creation that is not under the lordship of Christ,” Alvarez remarked, emphasizing the need for Christians to be vocal against extrajudicial killings.
As the Philippines grapples with the aftermath of Duterte’s presidency and the implications of the ICC’s involvement, the church stands at a crossroads. Will it choose to advocate for justice and healing, or will it succumb to the divisions that threaten to splinter its unity? The coming months will be crucial in determining the path forward for Filipino Christians and their role in shaping the moral landscape of their nation.