Sen. Bato to defy ICC arrest warrant

Senator Ronald "Bato" dela Rosa stated he will not submit to the jurisdiction of the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol) or the International Criminal Court (ICC) if they attempt to serve him an arrest warrant concerning the drug war deaths.

Dela Rosa emphasized that Interpol and the ICC lack jurisdiction over him and the Philippines.

He indicated he would not resist if local police authorities assist Interpol in serving the warrant, but would submit to the authority of the Philippine government if it is an order from a Philippine court.

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla previously stated that the Philippines generally respects Interpol's actions and does not block them unless it contradicts national policy or international commitments.

However, Remulla also mentioned the government was unlikely to stop Interpol from serving any arrest order from the ICC.

Former Senator Antonio Trillanes IV claimed Dela Rosa and several other former police officials were covered by Interpol's Blue Notice.

Dela Rosa stated he is ready to talk to the ICC if they make a formal communication, but this would not mean he recognizes their jurisdiction over him.

Senator Joel Villanueva said Senate rules would prevail in case of any attempt to apprehend Dela Rosa, citing privileges granted to senators while Congress is in session.