The Return of Duterte: Victory for the Masses, Tragedy for Justice — The Secret Deal Behind the Former President’s Comeback

In a stunning twist that no one expected — or perhaps, that many quietly feared — former Philippine President Rodrigo Roa Duterte has returned to the national stage. After months of silence, speculation, and rumors surrounding his health and his legal troubles with the International Criminal Court (ICC), Duterte’s reappearance has reignited old passions, reopened old wounds, and reshaped the fragile balance of Philippine politics.

His return is not merely a political comeback. To some, it is a symbol of defiance — a victory for the masses who still see him as the man who brought discipline, order, and “fear” back into governance. But for others, it is a tragedy for justice — a reminder that accountability remains elusive in a nation still struggling to heal from years of violence and division.

The Silence Before the Storm

For months, Duterte had all but vanished from public life. After stepping down in 2022, he retreated to his hometown of Davao, making only rare public appearances and offering cryptic remarks about the country’s future.

But behind the scenes, the pressure was mounting. The ICC had intensified its investigation into alleged crimes against humanity linked to Duterte’s bloody “war on drugs.” Several former police officials, once his loyal enforcers, began cooperating with international investigators. There were whispers that the former strongman was facing the possibility of extradition, a move that could have made him the first Philippine leader to stand trial at The Hague.

Then, suddenly — silence broke. A carefully orchestrated public reappearance in Davao City was broadcast nationwide: Duterte, looking frail but fiery, addressing a crowd of supporters chanting his name. Within hours, hashtags like #DuterteIsBack and #BalikDigong trended across social media.

The message was clear: he was back, and he wasn’t done.

The Secret Deal

Political insiders claim that Duterte’s return was not spontaneous. According to several sources close to both current and former government officials, a “confidential arrangement” may have been reached between Duterte’s camp and certain high-ranking political figures still loyal to him — an agreement that would guarantee his safety and political relevance in exchange for strategic support in the coming elections.

While the specifics remain unverified, the alleged deal reportedly involved behind-the-scenes negotiations aimed at softening the impact of ICC cooperation and ensuring that any attempt to extradite Duterte would be stalled or blocked through procedural maneuvers.

A former political aide, speaking on condition of anonymity, described it bluntly:

“The former president’s return was planned. It’s not just nostalgia — it’s protection. He came back because the people protecting him wanted him visible again.”

Whether true or not, the theory has found traction among analysts who note the timing of Duterte’s comeback — coinciding with renewed tension between rival political camps and talk of a possible coalition reshuffle.

The Masses Rejoice

In many parts of the country, Duterte’s return has been celebrated. Crowds in Mindanao greeted him like a hero, waving flags and chanting slogans reminiscent of his 2016 campaign. To his supporters, Duterte remains a man of the people — the only leader who dared to challenge elites and speak the language of the masses.

“Even if he’s no longer president, he’s still our protector,” said one supporter in Tagum City. “He made us feel safe. Now, the country feels chaotic again — so we need him back.”

This sentiment, though emotional, underscores a profound truth: Duterte’s populism never truly ended. His image as the strong, uncompromising father of the nation continues to resonate with millions who feel abandoned by the current political establishment.

But while his return may have reignited hope among his loyal base, it has also reignited fear among those who suffered under his rule.

A Tragedy for Justice

For the families of the thousands killed during the anti-drug campaign, Duterte’s resurgence is a painful reminder of unfinished justice. Human rights advocates have described it as “a slap in the face” to victims still waiting for accountability.

“The ICC case represents hope for those who lost loved ones,” said a spokesperson from a Manila-based human rights group. “But how can justice move forward when those responsible still hold power, directly or indirectly?”

Critics warn that Duterte’s return could undermine the ICC investigation, either by rallying nationalist sentiment against foreign interference or by exerting pressure on local institutions to stall cooperation.

“It’s a power play dressed as a comeback,” said one political analyst. “His presence alone sends a message: he is untouchable.”

A Nation Divided Once More

The Philippines has long been a country of contradictions — deeply emotional, fiercely loyal, and politically volatile. Duterte’s comeback exposes these fractures once again. On social media, fierce debates rage between “DDS” (Diehard Duterte Supporters) and human rights advocates, while politicians walk a fine line between aligning with his enduring influence and distancing themselves from potential backlash.

Even within the Duterte family, there are hints of political repositioning. Sara Duterte, the former president’s daughter and current Vice President, has remained cautious in her statements — publicly supportive of her father, yet noticeably measured. Observers believe this balancing act reflects the tension between family loyalty and political survival.

As the country looks ahead to another election cycle, Duterte’s re-emergence could drastically reshape alliances. For the opposition, it’s a nightmare; for loyalists, it’s a rallying cry.

The Shadow Over Democracy

Whether seen as a savior or a symbol of impunity, Duterte’s return underscores a troubling reality: the Philippines remains trapped in a cycle where personality often triumphs over principle.

His reappearance is not just about one man — it’s about a system that allows power to linger long after terms have ended, where accountability depends more on alliances than on law.

As one columnist aptly wrote:

“Duterte never really left. His shadow never stopped looming over this country. What we’re seeing now is not a comeback — it’s a reminder that history doesn’t heal until justice does.”

For the masses who still cheer his name, Duterte’s return feels like a victory.
For those who lost loved ones in the drug war, it’s a reopening of wounds that never truly closed.
And for the nation, it’s a reckoning — between memory and truth, between strength and justice.

The former president is back.
But so are the ghosts of his past.