Albayalde prepares for possible ICC arrest warrant

Former Philippine National Police chief Oscar Albayalde stated on Monday that he is preparing for the possible arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court (ICC) related to former President Rodrigo Duterte's war on drugs.

Albayalde emphasized that any potential arrest remains speculative and stressed that during his tenure as police chief, there were no official orders to kill suspects in the drug war.

He noted that Duterte never issued direct or indirect orders for killings and highlighted adherence to rule of law and human rights throughout his term.

Philippine authorities assisted Interpol in serving a warrant of arrest against Duterte on March 11, and he entered Scheveningen Prison in the Hague on March 13 (Philippine time).

Albayalde expressed hope for government protection if he faces possible arrest by Interpol, noting that former President Duterte's case with the ICC is a political issue affecting many Filipinos.

The lawyer of the families of supposed victims suggested that the ICC may issue more arrest warrants for 'co-perpetrators' of Duterte.