The crowd at Quirino Grandstand in Manila, Philippines on January 13, 2025. MANILA DRRM OFFICE/MANILA GIS

An estimated 1.5 million people gathered at Quirino Grandstand in Manila on Monday (January 13) for the National Rally for Peace, a show of support for Philippine Vice President Sara Duterte amid calls for her impeachment. The Philippine National Police (PNP) reported the crowd size by 10am, with thousands more attending similar rallies nationwide, including in Cebu, Iloilo, Davao, Bacolod, and Cagayan de Oro. The rally, organized by the influential religious group Iglesia Ni Cristo, underscored calls for unity among the country’s political leaders. In Manila, Mayor Honey Lacuna voiced her support for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s call to reject impeachment efforts against Duterte. Speaking at the event, Lacuna said in Filipino, “The Manila City is here to join calls for unity and peace.” The rally extended beyond Manila, with thousands braving rain to gather at Cebu City's South Road Properties. Supporters emphasized the importance of political stability and harmony, chanting slogans urging cooperation among leaders. In Mindanao, similar sentiments resonated as rallies took place in Cagayan de Oro City, where local officials also suspended work and classes to accommodate participants. Bacolod City followed suit in the Visayas, halting work to allow residents to join the movement. The PNP deployed 5,500 personnel to ensure security at the Quirino Grandstand event, while traffic authorities implemented rerouting schemes to manage the influx of attendees. Malacañang Palace suspended classes in Manila and neighbouring Pasay City to minimize disruptions. Vice President Duterte, daughter of former President Rodrigo Duterte, has faced mounting criticism, including allegations of graft, incompetence, and misuse of funds. She has denied all accusations, claiming they are politically motivated. President Marcos warned that impeachment proceedings would derail Congress from addressing urgent national issues. “This is not the time for distractions,” he emphasized during a recent address. While Duterte maintains her innocence, tensions within the government have escalated. House Secretary-General Reggie Velasco indicated last week that the impeachment complaints filed against Duterte could soon be taken up in Congress. The National Rally for Peace showcased widespread support for Duterte, with participants calling for an end to political infighting. “We want our leaders to focus on governance, not bickering,” said rally attendee Mary Anne Gonzales, a Manila resident. As the political drama unfolds, Filipinos remain divided on the issue, with some viewing the rallies as a testament to Duterte's enduring popularity, while others question the motives behind such massive demonstrations. CAM/Expat Media
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