Increase in online hate speech follows Duterte's arrest

MANILA, Philippines — A group representing families of victims of extrajudicial killings reported a significant rise in online threats and hate speech after former President Rodrigo Duterte was arrested on March 11. The group, called Rise Up for Life and for Rights, noted that much of the online harassment targeted women who had spoken out about the killings during Duterte's controversial drug war. Malacañang, the presidential palace, acknowledged the increase in hate content and stated it was working to improve efforts against online trolling and harmful public statements. The group linked the surge to a network of Duterte supporters who continue to propagate hate, even as he faces charges at the International Criminal Court in The Hague. Rise Up expressed concern that the threats reinforce a culture of violence enabled by Duterte. They highlighted instances of online harassment directed even at ICC officials, including comments on their social media accounts. This prompted discussions among legal experts and journalists about the influence of Duterte's supporters on public discourse and legal processes. In response to Duterte's arrest, his supporters have held protests in various locations, including Manila and The Hague. A notable rally in Davao City attracted around 3,000 supporters and was led by Duterte's son, Mayor Sebastian Duterte, who criticized current President Marcos for the arrest. The Rise Up group called for public support for families seeking justice for Duterte's actions and urged the ICC not to release him, stressing the need for a safe environment to pursue truth and accountability. Meanwhile, government officials, including Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro, defended the reactions from Duterte's supporters as a normal response to recent events and affirmed that President Marcos remains unaffected by the backlash.