Malacañang Press Officer Undersecretary Claire Castro sharply criticized Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa for his recent statement that he is contemplating evading arrest should the International Criminal Court (ICC) issue a warrant against him.
During a press conference on Thursday, Castro expressed bewilderment at dela Rosa’s stance, given his background as a former chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP).
“I’m just puzzled that he’s a former PNP chief. Isn’t it what he wants to show to the public, that if there’s a warrant of arrest, you will just hide?” Castro questioned. “No wonder it had been difficult to arrest Pastor Quiboloy,” she added, drawing a parallel to the ongoing legal challenges in apprehending the controversial religious leader.
“We don’t agree with that kind of thinking and what he wants to do,” Castro emphasized. “It’s baffling that a former law enforcement head would consider such an action.”
Castro further argued that such behavior by a public official undermines the rule of law and sets a negative precedent. “It would not bring any good to Filipino citizens if its own leaders will not face the allegations thrown against them,” she stated. “Accountability is paramount, and evading legal processes erodes public trust.”
Dela Rosa, a close ally of former President Rodrigo Duterte and his initial police chief, has consistently maintained that the ICC lacks jurisdiction over the Philippines.
His recent remarks, however, indicate a potential shift in his approach should the ICC proceed with arrest warrants related to its investigation into alleged crimes against humanity during the Duterte administration’s “war on drugs.”
Dela Rosa’s statement that he is considering hiding and not surrendering in the event that authorities will implement a warrant of arrest issued by the ICC against him, has sparked widespread controversy, drawing strong reactions from various sectors. The Palace’s sharp rebuke underscores the gravity of the situation and the potential implications for the country’s legal standing.