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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Duterte 'unconquered' despite ICC setback—Kitty

Duterte 'unconquered' despite ICC setback—Kitty

Published Apr 23, 2026 06:43 am
Veronica 'Kitty' Duterte delivers a message in The Hague after the International Criminal Court (ICC) appeals chamber affirmed the Court's jurisdiction over the case of former president Rodrigo Duterte, on April 22, 2026. (ICC/Alvin and Tourism/Facebook)
Veronica 'Kitty' Duterte delivers a message in The Hague after the International Criminal Court (ICC) appeals chamber affirmed the Court's jurisdiction over the case of former president Rodrigo Duterte, on April 22, 2026. (ICC/Alvin and Tourism/Facebook)

Former president Rodrigo Duterte remains “unconquered” despite the International Criminal Court (ICC) Appeals Chamber ruling affirming jurisdiction over his case, Veronica “Kitty” Duterte said.

Relaying a message from her father, Kitty quoted the poem Invictus by English poet William Ernest Henley to describe the former president’s state of mind.

“I am the master of my fate, I am the captain of my soul,” Duterte said, according to his daughter.

The statement came after the ICC Appeals Chamber on Wednesday, April 22, affirmed the court’s jurisdiction over Duterte’s case, allowing proceedings to move forward.

‘Invictus’ message

The younger Duterte said her father wanted to emphasize resilience following the ICC decision.

“His head is bloodied but unbowed,” she said, echoing lines from the poem.

She added that Duterte remains unafraid despite the circumstances he faces.

According to Kitty, the former president remains strong, even as his physical condition may have changed.

“He is strong as ever… while his body might become frail,” she said, stressing that his spirit remains intact.

Family stands firm

Kitty also expressed unwavering support for her father.

“There is nothing and no one on this earth I will not face for my family, for my Papa,” she said, noting that the strength she shows is a reflection of how she was raised.

She likewise said that Duterte’s influence continues through his family.

“His fire burns… through Congressman Pulong (Paolo) Duterte, Vice President Sara Duterte, Mayor Baste Duterte, and through me,” she said.

Kitty also said she continues to stand by the message she sent her father when he was brought to The Hague in March last year.

“I will forever walk with pride knowing that I am your daughter,” she said.

Legacy beyond the case

Kitty Duterte said her father’s legacy will endure regardless of the outcome of the case.

“His immortality will be seen on the minds and in the hearts of every Filipino he has saved,” she said.

She also addressed Duterte’s critics, saying he remains a polarizing but widely supported figure.

“No matter how much you hate PRRD, there will always be millions who love him,” she said.

“If you think you will win, no, you will not, because either way — Invictus,” she added.

Related Tags

Kitty Duterte ICC President Duterte Rodrigo Duterte
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