The Philippine National Police (PNP) assured its readiness in light of speculations that the International Criminal Court (ICC) may issue an arrest warrant for former President Rodrigo Duterte over alleged “crimes against humanity.”
In a brief statement to DZRH News, PNP Public Information Chief PCol. Randulf Tuaño said that the police force is prepared for any eventuality or occurrence.
"The PNP is prepared for any eventualities sir," Tuaño stated.
Tuaño gave this response when asked about Malacañang's earlier statement, which indicated that the Philippines is obligated to cooperate with Interpol if an arrest warrant is issued, even if it remains unconfirmed.
Meanwhile, the Police Regional Office 11 (PRO-11) confirmed to DZRH the reported presence of police at Davao International Airport since yesterday.
PMaj. Catherine Dela Rey, spokesperson for PRO-11, dismissed reports that the police presence at the Davao International Airport was aimed at arresting former President Duterte, who flew to Hong Kong over the weekend.
According to Dela Rey, the Regional Mobile Force Battalion was merely conducting a simulation exercise, and it had nothing to do with any ongoing issues.
“Nag-conduct po ng SIMEX ang RMFB 11, Sir. Regular simex po, hindi po related sa any issues po," Dela Rey explained.
Dela Rey clarified that the activity was a regular simulation exercise, with the police unit typically deployed at Davao airport.
On Sunday, Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Secretary Jay Ruiz told reporters that they had been informed of an arrest warrant issued by the ICC against Duterte for crimes against humanity.
Palace Press Officer and PCO Usec. Atty. Claire Castro, however, stressed that the Palace has not yet received confirmation regarding the alleged arrest warrant against Duterte.
