Ombudsman confirms ICC arrest warrant vs Bato dela Rosa

Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla confirmed the existence of an arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court (ICC) against Senator Ronald "Bato" dela Rosa, related to alleged extrajudicial killings during the previous administration's war on drugs.

Remulla stated he learned about the warrant through former Department of Justice (DOJ) colleagues and an ICC liaison, and that he has an unofficial copy on his cellphone.

However, the Philippine government, including the DOJ and DILG, has stated it has not officially received a copy of the warrant.

Former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque claimed over the weekend that the ICC arrest warrant against dela Rosa is already out, but Prosecutor General Richard Fadullon stated these claims have yet to be verified.

Fadullon clarified that the task of monitoring Senator dela Rosa's whereabouts is a responsibility of law enforcement and intelligence operatives, not the DOJ.

Remulla mentioned that Senator dela Rosa is currently in Pampanga, and authorities are tracking his whereabouts.

The government intends to involve the Supreme Court to address any petitions challenging the warrant, including one filed by Dela Rosa.