A Nun’s Call for Unconditional Love Amid Hate of Duterte Supporters at the September 21 Protests

During the September 21 protests against corruption in the Philippines at Liwasang Bonifacio, a nun from the Missionary of the Divine Healers, Mother Mary Flor, was verbally abused by supporters of former President Rodrigo Duterte after she called for unconditional love—even for President Bongbong Marcos. Thanks to the protection of ABS-CBN News reporters, she was spared from possible physical harm, revealing the alarming extent of political hate and fanaticism in today’s society.

Sep 28, 2025 - 10:44
Sep 28, 2025 - 12:30
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A Nun’s Call for Unconditional Love Amid Hate of Duterte Supporters at the September 21 Protests
The screenshot used in this article is for informational purposes only and is the sole property of ABS-CBN News. All rights belong to the original owner.

 

A Day of Protest at Liwasang Bonifacio

On September 21, protests were held across different parts of the Philippines to commemorate the anniversary of Martial Law and to raise voices against corruption in government. One of the most significant gatherings took place at Liwasang Bonifacio in Manila, where crowds were divided between those denouncing corruption and authoritarianism, and the large presence of supporters of former President Rodrigo Duterte. In this highly charged atmosphere, emotions ran high, and the very ideals of democracy and freedom of speech were put to the test.

 

a-nuns-call-for-unconditional-love-amid-hate-at-the-september-21-protests-03The screenshot used in this article is for informational purposes only and is the sole property of ABS-CBN News. All rights belong to the original owner.

 

The Voice of Mother Mary Flor

Amidst the heated rhetoric, Mother Mary Flor of the Missionary of the Divine Healers rose to speak. Her message was not one of anger or condemnation, but of compassion and healing. She called on Filipinos to extend unconditional love, even to President Bongbong Marcos, saying that he too is a victim of circumstances. Her words were meant to soften hardened hearts and encourage reconciliation in a deeply divided nation.

 

a-nuns-call-for-unconditional-love-amid-hate-at-the-september-21-protests-04The screenshot used in this article is for informational purposes only and is the sole property of ABS-CBN News. All rights belong to the original owner.

 

A Message Met with Hostility

Instead of being met with understanding, her plea was received with hostility. Supporters of former President Duterte surrounded her, mugging her with harsh words and ridicule. The sight of grown men verbally abusing an elderly nun was both painful and heartbreaking. The incident was caught on video by ABS-CBN News, which documented not only her courageous message but also the cruelty of those who opposed her call for peace.

 

a-nuns-call-for-unconditional-love-amid-hate-at-the-september-21-protests-05The screenshot used in this article is for informational purposes only and is the sole property of ABS-CBN News. All rights belong to the original owner.

 

The Protection of Journalists

Had it not been for the swift action of ABS-CBN News reporters, the situation could have escalated into physical violence. They shielded the nun from the mob, ensuring her safety and upholding the principle that voices of peace must be protected in times of turmoil. Their act was a reminder of the vital role of journalists—not just as witnesses, but as guardians of truth and justice in moments of crisis.

 

a-nuns-call-for-unconditional-love-amid-hate-at-the-september-21-protests-06The screenshot used in this article is for informational purposes only and is the sole property of ABS-CBN News. All rights belong to the original owner.

 

The Rise of Inhumane Hatred

The level of hatred shown that day was deeply disturbing. The verbal abuse hurled at Mother Mary Flor revealed how political fanaticism can strip individuals of basic compassion and decency. The sight of men shouting down an elderly woman—a nun, no less—showed the extent to which blind loyalty to political figures has overtaken humanity. The question lingers: what has become of these individuals, that they could respond with hate to a message of love?

The Pain of Watching Hate in Action

For many viewers of the ABS-CBN News video, it was painful to watch. Seeing an old woman of faith being cornered and ridiculed exposed the raw face of political division in the Philippines. It was not just about differing opinions—it was about the erosion of respect for elders, for women, for religious figures, and for the call to love.

 

a-nuns-call-for-unconditional-love-amid-hate-at-the-september-21-protests-07The screenshot used in this article is for informational purposes only and is the sole property of ABS-CBN News. All rights belong to the original owner.

 

Fanaticism vs. True Change

Mother Mary Flor’s words carried a challenge: how can true change happen if what fills people’s hearts is hate? Genuine reform requires compassion, dialogue, and forgiveness. Fanaticism, on the other hand, leads only to division, cruelty, and cycles of revenge. Her message served as a mirror to society, forcing Filipinos to ask themselves what kind of nation they want to build—one ruled by anger, or one guided by love.

Lessons for the Nation

The incident at Liwasang Bonifacio offers important lessons. First, unconditional love is not weakness—it is strength. It takes courage to love even those who are considered enemies. Second, hate and fanaticism destroy the very fabric of society. Finally, the role of media in safeguarding both truth and human dignity cannot be underestimated. Without the presence of ABS-CBN News reporters, the story could have ended far worse.

 

a-nuns-call-for-unconditional-love-amid-hate-at-the-september-21-protests-08The screenshot used in this article is for informational purposes only and is the sole property of ABS-CBN News. All rights belong to the original owner.

 

Choosing Love Over Hate

Mother Mary Flor’s ordeal is a stark reminder of the crossroads the Philippines faces. In a time when anger and division dominate the public sphere, her call for unconditional love is radical and revolutionary. It is an invitation to Filipinos to reject hatred, heal divisions, and work together toward genuine change. Her courage, despite the hostility she faced, challenges everyone to ask: what truly resides in our hearts—love or hate?
Watch the whole video by clicking in this link.

 


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DKmm Watanabe DKmm Watanabe is a full-stack web developer and an IT professor at フォーラム情報アカデミー専門学校 (Forum Information Academy Vocational School) in Niigata City. Passionate about technology and creativity, he enjoys traveling, writing, connecting with new people, and savoring a refreshing Chūhai (チューハイ). Explore his projects and portfolio online at www.derusan.com.