Duterte has been confined for over three weeks following his arrest on March 11, but that has not hindered his popularity, particularly in his home region. His 80th birthday on March 28 saw a massive turnout of supporters dressed in his party's colors in Davao City, transforming the event into what many perceive as a political rally. Demonstrations supporting Duterte simultaneously took place in other localities and outside his detention center in the Netherlands.

Local reports estimate that tens of thousands converged to rally for the former president, who remains a contentious figure due to his approach to crime and drugs during his presidency. While his critics decry the violent tactics employed, his followers celebrate him for restoring order and tackling significant societal issues.

Duterte's aspirations for local governance resonate with a portion of the populace that still appreciates his hard-line strategies, indicating that political influence persists despite international legal challenges. As the election draws nearer, the outcome could further influence the ongoing debate regarding his legacy and the Philippines' direction in both domestic and international arenas.