MANILA — A tense political moment unfolded as Sen. Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa found himself under Senate protective custody amid confirmation of an International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant tied to the Duterte-era drug war.
From within the Senate’s protection, Dela Rosa addressed supporters gathered outside through a video call, appealing directly to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for assistance.
“Wala kang personal na galit sa akin,” he said, stressing that he is simply a Filipino citizen asking for fairness and protection from the state.
At the center of his plea is his insistence on due process. Dela Rosa said the ICC warrant should not be immediately enforced but instead pass through Philippine courts, where he believes he can properly defend himself.
He has also asked the Supreme Court for a temporary restraining order to halt any arrest, arguing that legal procedures must be strictly observed.
Authorities had earlier attempted to carry out the warrant, but the effort did not proceed after the Senate placed him under protective custody. The National Bureau of Investigation later said it would respect the arrangement while the legal process unfolds.
The ICC confirmed the warrant was issued under seal in November 2025, linking Dela Rosa to alleged crimes during the Philippines’ controversial anti-drug campaign, which left thousands dead based on international estimates.
Amid the legal and political storm, the senator thanked his supporters and credited his escape from arrest attempts to what he described as divine protection.
ia/xf
