President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. (left), former president Rodrigo Duterte (Facebook, PPAB)

The Philippine Embassy at The Hague in the Netherlands deserves praise for assisting former president Rodrigo Duterte and his companions, including former executive secretary Salvador Medialdea. 

Thus, said House Senior Deputy Speaker Pampanga 3rd district Rep. Aurelio “Dong” Gonzales Jr., who described the action as reflective of President Marcos' compassionate leadership. 

“We commend the embassy and its staff for extending assistance. We believe it was part of their job--to help any Filipino in distress in their assigned area, whether he is a former official or ordinary overseas Filipino worker or tourist,” Gonzales said in a statement Thursday, March 13. 

Gonzales--the second highest-ranked official in the House of Representatives--said the embassy’s gesture reflects the Marcos administration’s compassionate leadership and adherence to international humanitarian law. 

He added that the former president’s stay in The Hague would give him the opportunity to air his side in the proper forum on the accusations against him. 

“As a legislator, I remain steadfast in upholding the principles of international law, ensuring that our policies and decisions not only align with our legal obligations but also uphold the highest global standards of justice, accountability, and cooperation,” he stressed. 

According to reports, the Philippine embassy in The Hague provided consular assistance to former President Duterte and his companions. 

"In view of the winter season in Europe, the embassy prepared, procured and delivered winter clothing, change of clothes and care packages for the former president," the embassy said in a statement. 

"Upon the embassy’s representation, the Netherlands’ Immigration Authorities granted those who escorted the former President, including the latter’s nurse and aide, two-day visas to enable them to rest and recover for their return flight," it said. 

Medialdea was reportedly issued a 15-day visa. 

On Tuesday morning, members of the International Police (Interpol) served an arrest warrant against Duterte in Manila. The 79-year-old was flown to Netherlands on board a chartered plane before the day was over. 

Duterte is facing a charge of crimes against humanity before the ICC in connection with with his bloody war on drugs.