PNP ready to assist Interpol with new arrest warrants for Duterte

The Philippine National Police (PNP) reaffirmed its commitment to assist Interpol with any additional warrants for arrest related to former President Rodrigo Duterte's war on drugs.

Police Col. Randulf Tuaño, chief of the PNP-Public Information Office, emphasized that as a member of Interpol, the PNP is prepared to cooperate if new arrest warrants are issued.

Former national police chief and current Senator Ronald 'Bato' Dela Rosa remains a key figure in the ICC probe into Duterte's anti-drug campaign and has indicated he would seek Senate protection if an ICC warrant were issued for his arrest.

Senate President Francis 'Chiz' Escudero stated that Dela Rosa may stay in the Senate until he exhausts all legal remedies should an arrest warrant be issued by the ICC, citing institutional courtesies.

On March 14 (Manila time), Duterte underwent an initial hearing at the ICC's pre-trial chamber, where he was formally charged with crimes against humanity for his alleged involvement in at least 43 killings during his presidency.

Under Duterte's war on drugs, government records indicate that approximately 6,000 deaths occurred. However, human rights organizations estimate the death toll to be around 30,000, largely involving individuals accused of minor drug offenses.