Marking the 81st birthday of her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, Vice President Sara Duterte lauded supporters for their efforts in standing on the defense of the detained ex-leader, saying that what they are doing is parallel to defending the sovereignty of their country.

“The defense of his rights is a defense of our national sovereignty," said the vice president as she vowed not to give up in pushing for her father's freedom

She praised supporters for their loyalty to the former president whom she praised for the accomplishments he made during his presidency.

The elder Duterte spent his birthday at his detention quarters at the International Criminal Court in The Hague, Netherlands. He is awaiting trial for charges of crimes against humanity in connection with the death of thousands during his war against drugs campaign.

“To all the parallel support groups, volunteers and the millions of Filipinos here and abroad who organized celebrations to honor him, maraming salamat sa inyong walang sawang pagmamahal at katapatan,” the younger Duterte told supporters.

She also warned against what she calledas the “weaponization of the law”, adding that Filipinos must be cautioned against supposed interference by foreign institutions.

“To the Filipino people, thank you for being our strength. Thbrough the storms and challenges, your resilience remains our inspiration,” said the vice president.