Former President Rodrigo Duterte extended warm birthday wishes to Senator Ronald "Bato" Dela Rosa on his 64th birthday, delivering a message of resilience and strength during a visit by Vice President Sara Duterte. The greeting was conveyed as Vice President Duterte met with her father, who is currently detained at the International Criminal Court (ICC) facility in The Hague, Netherlands.
A Message of Fortitude
In his birthday message, Duterte emphasized the importance of steadfastness, advising the senator to "stay hard like a rock." This phrase reflects Duterte's characteristic style of encouragement, often using metaphorical language to inspire toughness and determination in his allies.
Background on Senator Dela Rosa
Senator Ronald "Bato" Dela Rosa served as the Philippine National Police (PNP) chief during Duterte's presidency, a period marked by controversial anti-drug campaigns. Since an arrest warrant was reportedly issued by the ICC related to these operations, Dela Rosa has maintained a low public profile, avoiding appearances that might draw international attention.
The connection between Duterte and Dela Rosa remains strong, with this birthday greeting highlighting their ongoing political alliance. The visit by Vice President Sara Duterte to her father in the Netherlands provided a unique opportunity for the message to be relayed, underscoring the personal and professional bonds within Philippine political circles.
This event comes amid ongoing discussions about the ICC's involvement in Philippine affairs, with Dela Rosa's situation serving as a focal point for debates on sovereignty and international justice. The senator's response to Duterte's advice and his future actions will be closely watched by observers both domestically and abroad.
