THE HAGUE, Netherlands — “Pwede na mag-asawa!”
Those four words from Honeylet Avanceña, said with a mix of humor and motherly pride, drew raucous laughter and applause from supporters of the Duterte family who had gathered outside the detention center of former President Rodrigo Duterte in The Hague to celebrate the 21st birthday of his youngest daughter, Veronica “Kitty” Duterte.
The crowd, composed of longtime loyalists, overseas Filipinos, and close friends of the family, braved chilly spring winds to mark Kitty’s milestone birthday with music, food, and cheers just outside the facility where the former president is being held on charges related to alleged crimes against humanity during his controversial war on drugs.
When asked by supporters for her birthday message to Kitty, Honeylet grinned and quipped, “Pwede na mag-asawa!”, a playful nod to Kitty officially reaching the legal age of majority. The crowd erupted in laughter, applause, and teasing chants, clearly amused by the comment, which lightened the otherwise somber backdrop of the gathering.
Avanceña remarks came in the middle of a heartfelt yet festive gathering that saw Duterte supporters bringing cakes, handwritten letters, and small gifts to mark Kitty’s special day, many of them addressed not just to her, but also to her father, whom they continue to revere.
The gathering was a show of strength and solidarity from Duterte loyalists, many of whom expressed dismay over the former president’s detention. Throughout the event, chants of “Free Duterte!” and “We love you, Kitty!” could be heard echoing outside the gates of the ICC facility.
Despite the weight of the circumstances, the moment with Honeylet’s “pwede na mag-asawa” line reminded everyone that life and laughter goes on, even in the most unexpected places.
As one supporter said through tears and laughter: “We came here for Kitty, but we’re also here for Digong. The family needs to feel our love now more than ever.”
