Duterte signature campaign gains momentum

The nationwide signature campaign calling for former President Rodrigo Duterte’s return to the Philippines. TAY KAMI NAMAN

A nationwide signature campaign calling for the return of former President Rodrigo Duterte to the Philippines is gaining ground, as supporters continue to gather signatures across key cities in the Visayas and Mindanao. The campaign, called “Tay, Kami Naman,” aims to collect at least 500,000 signatures urging the Philippine Supreme Court to act on pending petitions related to Duterte’s detention and to uphold due process and judicial independence. As of Wednesday (January 21), the campaign website taykaminaman.org has recorded more than 40,000 online signatures, with thousands more collected physically through community drives. The signature caravan is currently in Cebu, following earlier stops in Bacolod, Dumaguete, and several areas in the Visayas and Mindanao, according to Duterte supporter MJ Quiambao Reyes, who spoke to Expat Media from Cebu City. Reyes explained that the campaign is not about politics, but about legal rights and due process. “For years, former president Duterte stood at the frontlines for Filipinos, especially overseas workers,” Reyes told Expat Media. “He fought for OFW dignity, streamlined government services, and gave people a sense of safety. Now, it is our turn to stand up for him—not just as a former leader, but as a Filipino entitled to due process and the rule of law.” Reyes added that there is currently no fixed advance schedule for signature caravan sorties, as supporters are instead encouraged to help gather signatures independently. The campaign seeks action on four pending petitions before the Supreme Court, challenges any executive actions that may have violated constitutional rights, and calls for the preservation of Philippine judicial sovereignty. Supporters argue that Filipino leaders should be judged under Philippine laws and courts, not foreign jurisdictions. Duterte has been detained at an International Criminal Court facility since March last year, pending trial over alleged crimes against humanity. Philippine authorities have said investigations related to the case remain ongoing. Former Duterte protocol officer Jasmin Egan said the signature drive is free and voluntary, stressing that no donations are being solicited and that the effort is coordinated with Duterte’s legal team. Supporters overseas are also being urged to participate, with Reyes saying the campaign resonates strongly with Filipinos abroad who benefited from Duterte-era reforms, including OFW one-stop service centres and stronger labor protections. CAM/Expat Media