Bishop Patricio Buzon of the Diocese of Bacolod said the detention of former President Rodrigo Duterte at the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague, the Netherlands, can be considered by his supporters as a spiritual opportunity.

“I strongly believe that his detention in The Hague is a special grace. It is a year of grace. This could be the last chance for him to return to God,” Buzon said in his homily during a Holy Mass at the San Sebastian Cathedral in Bacolod City on Sunday, March 23.

Citing the Scripture, Buzon said Duterte, who turns 80 on March 28, is living on “borrowed time.”

“In a few days’ time, he will be 80 years old, which means he lives on a bonus, on borrowed time. Prison time is a powerful time. More powerful than any spiritual retreat,” he added.

While supporters of the ex-president claim that the charges are politically motivated and continue to call for his return to the Philippines, Buzon challenged Duterte loyalists to reconsider their support in light of what is best for the former chief executive.

“True love seeks the good of the beloved. If they truly love their Tatay Digong, they will do well to leave him in peace where he is now,” he said.

“If Duterte’s loyal followers profess undying love for him, they should know that God loves him infinitely much more.”

The bishop added that “blind fanaticism is tearing us apart as a people.”

He urged Filipinos to put the love of country above partisan loyalty and “fight the spread of fake news.”

The former president is currently detained in The Hague to face crimes against humanity charges before the ICC. He was arrested by the International Criminal Police Organization or Interpol and local police on March 11. (PNA)