MANILA, Philippines– Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa has requested protection from the Senate in response to a potential warrant from the International Criminal Court (ICC).
Dela Rosa is seeking assurance from Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero that the Senate will not surrender him to authorities if such a warrant is issued. He made the request public on Wednesday.
The ICC is investigating the anti-drug campaign during Dela Rosa’s tenure as Chief of the Philippine National Police.
The inquiry focuses on alleged human rights violations and extrajudicial killings linked to police operations targeting illegal drugs.
Despite the Philippines’ withdrawal from the ICC under former President Rodrigo Duterte, the tribunal asserts jurisdiction over crimes committed while the country was a member.
Dela Rosa maintains that the operations were legal and believes the ICC’s actions undermine Philippine sovereignty.
He argues that investigations should be handled by the country’s judicial system rather than an international body.
The Senate has previously intervened in similar matters involving its members. Senate President Escudero has not yet commented on Dela Rosa’s request, and the Senate will review the appeal.
