Palace has responded to Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa’s claim that the renewed discussion on his case in the International Criminal Court (ICC) is a “recycled issue” meant to divert public attention.
This comes after Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin told Kyodo News that Dela Rosa would receive “similar treatment” should the ICC issue a warrant of arrest, much like former President Rodrigo Duterte, who is facing an ICC probe for alleged crimes against humanity in connection with the bloody drug war.
Dela Rosa, a significant figure in Duterte's administration as the former police chief during the anti-drug campaign, responded to Bersamin's statement.
“Mahilig sila sa ganoon ‘no, kapag may issues na pinupukol sa Malacanang… Kaya gagawa na naman sila ng issue about ICC and a senator to divert the issue” he said in his post online.
“‘Yan naman mahilig ang mga tao diyan sa Malacanang, gagawa ng panibagong issue, kahit na old issue, rehashed issue, ire-recycle nila ‘yan to divert people’s attention.” he also added.
However, Malacañang reiterated that the potential ICC arrest is not an outdated topic. Palace Press Officer Atty. Claire Castro emphasized during a press briefing,
“‘Yung possible ICC arrest hindi po ito old issue. Every now and then, may naririnig po tayo na maaaring mailabas ang warrant of arrest at hindi rin po issue yung case pending before the ICC,” Palace Press Officer Atty. Claire Castro said during a press briefing.
Dela Rosa is among those being investigated by the ICC for his role in the war on drugs. Although the Philippines withdrew from the ICC in 2019, it retains jurisdiction over alleged crimes committed during the country’s membership.
As of writing, there has been no official request from the ICC for the arrest of Senator Dela Rosa.
