MANILA, Philippines — Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa dismissed recent statements from Malacañang about a possible arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court (ICC), claiming they are merely attempts to divert attention from other controversies involving the Palace.
Dela Rosa was responding to a remark by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, who said the senator could face arrest if the ICC issues a warrant in connection with his role in the previous administration’s war on drugs.
According to Dela Rosa, the sudden focus on the ICC is meant to overshadow recent allegations linking First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos to the death of retail executive Paolo Tantoco—an accusation the Palace has already strongly denied.
“They’re only raising the ICC issue again to cover up the controversy involving the First Lady,” the senator said, stressing that no warrant has been issued against him at this point.
Dela Rosa: Government Repeating Mistakes
Dela Rosa also pushed back on Bersamin’s statement that he would be treated the same way as former President Rodrigo Duterte if arrested by the ICC. Duterte was reportedly taken into custody by Interpol last March 11 based on a warrant tied to crimes against humanity filed before the ICC.
“That was a serious mistake on their part,” Dela Rosa said of Duterte’s treatment. “If they want to repeat that mistake, that’s entirely up to them.”
Refuses to Confirm Any Preparations
When asked whether he was making any personal preparations in case a warrant is issued, the senator declined to give a direct answer.
Dela Rosa, who was the chief implementer of the Duterte administration’s controversial anti-drug campaign, remains under scrutiny by international human rights groups.
The Philippines withdrew from the Rome Statute in 2019, but the ICC continues to assert jurisdiction over alleged crimes committed while the country was still a member.
