Bato to Seek SC Clarification If ICC Pushes for His Arrest Over Drug War

MANILA — Senator Ronald "Bato" dela Rosa stated on Tuesday that clarification would be sought from the Supreme Court regarding the International Criminal Court's (ICC) jurisdiction over the Philippines, should the tribunal based in The Hague issue a warrant for his arrest.

Judicial relief would be pursued, with the Supreme Court being approached for guidance, Dela Rosa mentioned in an interview with ANC's "Headstart." He noted that there would be no issue if the high court decided the ICC still has jurisdiction over the nation. However, he emphasized the government's obligation to respect the court's ruling if it determined otherwise.

"It needs to be observed. Otherwise, nothing will happen to the country, and their preferences will prevail," he said.

Regarding the potential issuance of an ICC warrant of arrest, Dela Rosa remarked that fear for his safety is not a concern. "I have participated in many wars. I have faced countless battles and am not afraid of death," he said. His only fear, he added, is for his grandchildren, who might not see him again.

ICC Investigates Duterte's Drug War

Dela Rosa is one of the individuals under investigation by the ICC for potential crimes against humanity linked to former President Rodrigo Duterte's campaign against illegal drugs.

As a former national police chief during Duterte's presidency, Dela Rosa was described as the "chief architect" of the anti-drug campaign, which resulted in the deaths of thousands of alleged drug offenders, primarily from impoverished communities.

Allegations of violations and corruption associated with the campaign have been denied by Dela Rosa.

The Philippine government has adopted the stance of non-cooperation with the ICC. The nation withdrew from the Rome Statute in 2019, citing disagreements with the preliminary inquiry into the anti-drug operations, which have been accused of violating human rights.

Despite the withdrawal, the ICC has clarified that it retains jurisdiction over alleged crimes committed on Philippine territory while the country was a State Party, specifically from November 1, 2011, to March 16, 2019.

Observers have suggested that the ICC could issue an arrest warrant for Duterte before the year concludes, which might signal the start of a trial.

The Philippine government, through Malacañang, has stated its willingness to cooperate with the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol) if a red notice is issued against Duterte in connection with the ICC investigation into his drug war.