Emily Soriano and Isabelita Espinosa, who lost their sons during a brutal massacre in December 2016, shared their reactions following Duterte's arrest. During a tragic evening, gunmen invaded their neighborhood and killed seven people, including three children and a pregnant woman. The mothers have held Duterte accountable for their loss, and they express a mix of relief and determination now that a possible path to justice appears to be forming. “What matters to me now is that justice is served,” Espinosa stated, emphasizing the necessity to fight against tyranny and violence.

Many Filipino citizens are hopeful that Duterte's arrest marks the beginning of a reckoning for the violence and impunity associated with his administration. However, the ongoing trauma within communities affected by his policies remains palpable, creating a complex emotional landscape for those seeking closure and accountability.