DILG: No Confirmation of ICC Warrant for Dela Rosa
MANILA – Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Juanito Victor “Jonvic” Remulla stated on Saturday that the government has not received any official confirmation regarding the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) reported arrest warrant for former Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa.
Speaking to reporters, Remulla described any information circulating about the warrant as “hearsay.” He emphasized the need for verification through official channels before any statement can be made. The DILG, he said, is awaiting formal communication from the ICC regarding the matter.
The reported warrant stems from the ICC's investigation into alleged crimes against humanity related to the government's “war on drugs.” Dela Rosa, as PNP chief during that period, is among those who could potentially face charges. Previous ICC investigations have been met with resistance from the Philippine government, which asserts its sovereign right to handle its own legal processes.
The ICC’s jurisdiction over crimes committed in the Philippines remains a contentious issue. The Philippines withdrew from the Rome Statute, the treaty that established the ICC, in 2019, but the court retains jurisdiction over crimes committed before that withdrawal, particularly if Philippine authorities are unwilling or unable to genuinely investigate and prosecute the cases. The development concerning Dela Rosa underscores the ongoing legal and diplomatic complexities surrounding the ICC's involvement in Philippine affairs.
Remulla’s comments reflect the government's cautious approach to the situation, prioritizing official verification before reacting to potentially sensitive developments. The public awaits further updates from the DILG and the ICC regarding the status of the warrant and its potential implications.