Sarah Balabagan Reacts to Duterte’s Arrest
SARAH BALABAGAN – The former Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) shared her thoughts after former President Rodrigo Duterte was arrested and taken to The Hague for trial at the International Criminal Court (ICC).
In a social media post, Sarah expressed her support for Duterte, calling him a “great leader.” She admitted that he had flaws but stressed that no one is perfect. Quoting John 8:7, she reminded critics that only those who have never sinned have the right to judge others.
She also praised Duterte’s contributions to the country, saying that many Filipinos benefited from his leadership. Sarah explained that strong emotions—whether admiration or hatred—can affect how people see a leader. She pointed out that blind loyalty can make people ignore a leader’s mistakes, while hatred can stop critics from seeing the good things he has done. Speaking to Duterte’s critics, she asked them not to involve her in their opposition, making it clear that her opinions were her own.
Sarah’s views are different from those of her former partner, journalist Arnold Clavio, who has a different take on the issue. Their past relationship became a topic of public discussion again after Sarah revealed that Arnold had fathered her child when she was only 17. However, Arnold has chosen not to speak about it.
Meanwhile, Sarah Balabagan is a Filipina who became known worldwide in the 1990s after being sentenced to death in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for killing her employer in self-defense. At just 14 years old, she went to the UAE to work but suffered abuse from her employer, whom she later killed while protecting herself from an attack.
Her case sparked international concern, and after efforts from diplomats and public support, her death sentence was reduced. She was later pardoned and allowed to return to the Philippines in 1996.
After her release, Sarah became a spokesperson for the rights of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). She also pursued a career in singing, public speaking, and media. Later, she moved to the United States, where she focused on her family and faith.
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