Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa claimed Friday that investigators from the International Criminal Court (ICC) are in the Philippines attempting to pressure retired police officials into signing affidavits against him and former President Rodrigo Duterte in relation to the controversial war on drugs.
Dela Rosa, who led the PNP during Duterte’s anti-drug campaign, made the allegations during a media interview, expressing doubts about President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s sincerity in seeking reconciliation with the Duterte camp.
“If the President is serious about reconciliation, his first move should be to expel the ICC investigators now staying in Pasay hotels who are allegedly threatening retired police officers,” he said.
Dela Rosa warned that he would initiate a Senate inquiry into the ICC’s presence and called out Filipinos allegedly collaborating with the investigators, accusing them of betraying national sovereignty.
The senator said the investigators are using intimidation tactics, reportedly presenting prepared affidavits and warning officers they could face charges if they refuse to sign. “The PNP should protect its retired officers, not abandon them,” he said.
He also criticized the Marcos administration for allowing ICC activity while officially denying its jurisdiction, following the country’s 2019 withdrawal from the Rome Statute.
Previously, Dela Rosa and Duterte filed a petition before the Supreme Court to block the government from assisting the ICC and questioned the Court’s recognition of the tribunal’s jurisdiction over Philippine nationals.