- Cites Duterte’s 50 years in legal profession
- For public service as Mayor and President
By Ivy Tejano
DAVAO CITY – Former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte was recognized with the prestigious Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) Golden Pillar of Law Award in an appropriate ceremony held at the Hall of Justice in Davao City.
The award celebrates Duterte’s 50 years in the legal profession, both in private practice or public service, and his steadfast commitment to justice, integrity, and the rule of law.
Representing Duterte at the ceremony was his former Undersecretary and City Administrator, Attorney Jesus Melchor Quitain, who accepted the award on his behalf.
Councilor and lawyer J. Melchor Quitain Jr., who accompanied his father during the awarding ceremony disclosed the IBP’s citation of the former President achievement on his official Facebook page.
The IBP Davao City Chapter praised Duterte for his lasting contributions to the legal community and public service, highlighting his work as a public prosecutor, as Mayor of Davao City and finally as President of the country.
The Golden Pillar of Law Award is IBP’s highest honor, given to those who exemplify excellence in law and uphold the principles of justice throughout their careers.
The former President, remains in detention at the Hague, Netherlands after the current administration waylaid him upon his arrival from Hong Kong and flew him by private jet and turned him over to the International Criminal Court on charges of crime against humanity for the alleged killing of 43 persons in his campaign against drug syndicates.
Now 80 years old, the frail Mayor-President was recently reported to have fallen and lost consciousness in the process. He has been in detention for almost eight months while waiting for trial which was supposed to be held last September 23. On account of his deteriorating health the Senate passed a resolution appealing to ICC to place him under house arrest.
Duterte has the distinction of having the highest Trust and Approval rating during and after his term as President of the Philippines.
