Senate President Francis Escudero said Senator Ronald dela Rosa would be allowed to stay within Senate premises if the International Criminal Court (ICC) issues an arrest warrant against him.
“It’s not for me to stop Senator Bato from going here. That’s his decision, but the limit of that should probably be until the court has made a clear ruling on his judicial remedies, which is his right, not only as a senator but also as an ordinary citizen,” he said.
Dela Rosa, a former Philippine National Police (PNP) chief, faces potential charges related to his role in former President Rodrigo Duterte’s controversial war on drugs.
The ICC is investigating alleged crimes against humanity committed during Duterte’s six-year presidency, which ended in 2022.
Escudero emphasized that protecting a fellow senator is not about defying the law but ensuring due process is followed.
Dela Rosa has publicly declared that he would seek “Senate protection” if an arrest warrant is issued, though he said he would surrender once legal options are depleted.
“It’s not in the law, but it is part of the Senate rules and based on institutional courtesy. It’s not meant to last forever, only until he is given enough time for his judicial remedies to be clarified or decided,” Escudero reminded.
Critics argue the campaign enabled extrajudicial killings, while supporters say it reduced crime and drug activity.
Dela Rosa maintains his actions were lawful, arguing that police followed proper procedures.
Escudero, meanwhile, hopes the situation does not further divide Filipinos, emphasizing the need to handle the matter with unity and respect for the law.
He added that any ICC warrant against Duterte or Dela Rosa should be addressed peacefully and legally.
Former PNP chief Oscar Albayalde meanwhile said he is preparing for the possible arrest warrant from the ICC.
“Well, let’s just wait because that is just all speculation as of this time,” Albayalde told Super Radyo dzBB in an interview. “Although, we are preparing for that. We can exhaust all legal means. But at the end of the day, it is still the government’s decision.”
Asked if he will face his possible case before the ICC, Albayalde said he will if this is the decision of the Philippine government.
Editor’s Note: This is an updated article. Originally posted with the headline “Dela Rosa can stay in Senate as ‘institutional courtesy’—Escudero.”