Delivering a manifestation before the Senate on Wednesday, March 11, Go recalled the emotional moment in 2025 when Duterte, now in his eighties, was transported to the Netherlands in connection with proceedings before the International Criminal Court (ICC), describing the incident as one that left a lasting imprint on many Filipinos.
"Nagkataon rin po, exactly today, one year na po, March 11, 2025. Last year, on this very same day, was one of the saddest days in our history. It was a day when emotions ran high across our country. A day when millions watched in disbelief as former President Rodrigo Duterte was taken and brought in The Hague," Go said.
The senator reflected on the passage of time since that moment, noting that many Filipinos still carry the emotional weight of the event.
"Akalain ninyo, Mr. President, isang taon na pala ang lumipas, ngunit parang kahapon lamang nangyari ang lahat. Sapagkat hanggang ngayon, ang kalungkutan at pangungulila ay nananatili pa rin sa puso ng marami nating kababayan."
"One year has passed, yet the emotions remain as vivid as ever. The pain, the questions, and the sense of loss are still felt by many Filipinos who remember that moment not merely as a political event, but as a deeply personal chapter in their lives."
Go also raised concerns about Duterte's age and health, recalling that the former president has already reached his eighties.
"Nakakalungkot. Matanda na si Tatay Digong. In fact, yung picture na lumabas diyan, meron pong oxygen concentrator, totoo po yun. Panahon ng pandemya, bitbit niya to lagi kahit saan siya nagta-travel. Alam naman natin na matapang at matatag siya. Pero kitang kita ko rin ang kanyang iniinda. 81 na po siya ngayong March 28."
"Harmless at fragile na si Tatay Digong, hindi na dapat siya ipinilit ilayo sa bansa. Hirap na siya maglakad, nakatungkod na nga po siya. Maski pagtali ng sariling sintas, hindi na niya maabot. Lahat naman po tayo tumatanda. Lahat tayo may minamahal na lolo, lola, tatay, o kaibigang may edad na."
"Dapat po ay alagaan na lang sila dito. Ang sakit makita na yung taong binigay ang lahat para sa atin ngayon ay mag-isa sa isang kwarto sa banyagang bansa."
Go emphasized that the incident stirred strong emotions among Filipinos who once entrusted Duterte with the country's highest office.
"Mr. President, for many of us, it was more than a headline. It was more than a political issue. It was a moment that stirred memories and deep questions about our history as Filipinos. For in that moment, we saw not just a former president — but a man who once carried the mandate of millions, a man who rose from his humble beginnings in Davao City and stood at the helm of this country."
Duterte was brought to the Netherlands on March 11, 2025 in connection with proceedings before the ICC related to allegations linked to the anti-illegal drugs campaign conducted during his years in public office.
He was taken into custody upon arriving in Manila from Hong Kong and later transferred to a flight bound for The Hague, where the ICC is based.
"Nakalulungkot pong alalahanin ang nangyari sa ating mahal na dating Pangulong Duterte na nagsakripisyo at ibinigay ang lahat ng kanyang makakaya ayon sa batas, bunsod ng kanyang labis na pagmamahal sa ating mga kababayan, lalo na sa mga mahihirap at ordinaryong Pilipino," Go said.
Go said the anniversary should encourage Filipinos to reflect on principles that go beyond political divisions.
"We must ensure that what happened to former President Duterte should never happen again to anyone. No Filipino, regardless of position, influence, or political affiliation, should ever feel that the legal processes meant to protect our people can be set aside or disregarded."
He added that the issue also touches on broader questions involving national dignity and the country's institutions.
"Siguraduhin natin na hindi mauulit sa kahit sinuman ang pagsasantabi ng mga legal na proseso. This issue is greater than any of us or any personality. What is at stake here is our sovereignty and judicial independence as a sovereign nation and the dignity of every Filipino."
"Kung ang isang dating Pangulo ng ating bansa ay maaaring tratuhin nang ganito, paano pa kaya ang isang ordinaryong Pilipino?"
Go also called for unity among Filipinos and expressed hope that divisions within the country could eventually be overcome.
"Sana muling magkaisa ang mga Pilipino. Sana, matuldukan na ang pagkawatak-watak nating mga Pilipino. Imbes na umunlad, bigla tayong umurong."
He compared the situation with past efforts to assist Filipinos abroad, particularly overseas workers facing legal difficulties.
"OFWs nga pinapauwi natin. Noong panahon ni dating Pangulong Duterte, yung iba po nagre-raise po ng funds para pambigay doon para dun sa blood money, para lang po mapauwi ang ating mga OFWs. Yun po yung ginagawa namin noon na ginagawan ng paraan na makauwi dito yung mga kababayan nating Pilipino."
"Pero baliktad po yung nangyari kay Tatay Digong. Bakit natin isinuko ang sarili nating lahi?”
Go stressed that every Filipino, regardless of status, should be able to rely on their own country for protection.
The senator also pointed to the uncertain global situation as a reminder for Filipinos to remain united.
"We will never know what will happen tomorrow and in times like this, let us take it as a call for Filipinos to come together. Let us stand as one, no matter our status, our color, or our political beliefs."
"Siguraduhin natin na ang bawat Pilipino, ano man iyong estado, kulay, paniniwala o kinabibilangang pulitika, ay protekado at nirerespeto ng Estado."
Despite the ongoing proceedings abroad, Go said Duterte's place in Philippine history remains significant.
"And today, wherever history ultimately places our former President Duterte, one thing remains undeniable: he became a defining figure in the lives of millions of Filipinos."
The senator concluded his manifestation by calling on Filipinos to pray for the former president.
"Finally, Mr. President, I humbly ask for everyone’s prayers for former President Duterte, prayers for his health, his safety, and his well-being. May he be protected, guided, and kept strong as he faces the days ahead."
Senator Bong Go