Palace criticizes Bato Dela Rosa’s plan to go into hiding from ICC

Malacañang expressed dismay over Senator Ronald 'Bato' Dela Rosa's plan to possibly go into hiding if the International Criminal Court (ICC) seeks his arrest for crimes against humanity related to former President Rodrigo Duterte’s war on drugs.

In a Palace press briefing, Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro criticized Dela Rosa's suggestion and questioned its implications for public trust in leaders facing legal issues.

Castro emphasized that the government does not support avoiding legal proceedings and stressed the importance of facing any cases or complaints against them.

The Philippine government has stated its willingness to cooperate with Interpol if assistance is sought for Dela Rosa’s arrest under applicable extradition laws and treaties.

Section 70 of Republic Act 9851 allows authorities to surrender suspected individuals to international courts or other states, as appropriate.

While the ICC is investigating key personalities including Dela Rosa regarding Duterte's drug war, Malacañang has yet to receive news that an arrest warrant has been issued against him.