Manila: Malaca±ang on Monday stated that Senators Ronald 'Bato' dela Rosa and Christopher 'Bong' Go may undergo the same legal process as former President Rodrigo R. Duterte before the International Criminal Court (ICC), emphasizing the government's commitment to following existing laws if arrest warrants are issued.
According to Philippines News Agency, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro mentioned that the inclusion of Dela Rosa, Go, and other former officials as alleged co-perpetrators in the ICC case is linked to proceedings initiated in 2017. Castro highlighted that the government cannot interfere with the ICC's legal process as the case was filed before President Marcos Jr.'s tenure began.
The ICC Office of the Prosecutor has identified eight incumbent and former officials, including Dela Rosa and Go, as alleged co-perpetrators in killings related to the Duterte administration's anti-illegal drugs campaign. Duterte has been held at the ICC Detention Center in The Hague, Netherlands since March 11, 2025, on charges of crimes against humanity due to actions during his terms as Davao City mayor and President. He is scheduled for a confirmation hearing on February 23 after being deemed fit for trial.
Castro assured that the Marcos administration would ensure adherence to due process. She reiterated that any process would follow the government's commitment to legal procedures. Regarding the potential implementation of arrest warrants via the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol), Castro noted that a similar approach had been previously followed.
This aligns with Malaca±ang's earlier position that Duterte's arrest was related to the Philippines' commitment to Interpol, not the ICC. However, Castro clarified that while the government maintains that the ICC currently lacks jurisdiction over the Philippines, alleged crimes committed while the country was a member could be treated differently. She added that the government is not monitoring the whereabouts of those named, as no arrest warrants have been received.
Castro dismissed allegations that the case is being used to distract from other issues, pointing out that the complaint predates the Marcos administration. She urged supporters of the Duterte camp to remain calm and allow the legal process to unfold, emphasizing the importance of justice for both alleged victims and the accused. Castro also advised those accused against going into hiding, questioning the implications of such actions.
Dela Rosa, Duterte's former police chief, has not been publicly visible for months, while Go, Duterte's longtime aide turned senator, remains active but has previously dismissed allegations.
