Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa has publicly criticized President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s decision to cooperate with the International Criminal Court (ICC) concerning the arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte. In a phone interview, Dela Rosa described Marcos’ rationale as a “flimsy alibi,” asserting that the President possesses the authority to decline cooperation with the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol) on matters related to the ICC.
Dela Rosa expressed his dismay, stating, “That’s a very flimsy alibi for me. That only goes to show na talagang sila ay interesado na i-commit si [former president] Duterte doon sa ICC.” He further elaborated that as President, Marcos could have outrightly rejected the request, conveying that the Philippines does not recognize the ICC’s jurisdiction. Dela Rosa believes that Interpol would understand such a stance, but the administration appeared eager to comply.
The senator, who has petitioned the Supreme Court to contest Duterte’s arrest, argued that the former president should have been presented to local courts before any international proceedings. He lamented that Duterte was not even presented before local courts following his arrest, indicating a hasty transfer that, in Dela Rosa’s view, underscores the administration’s intent to apprehend him.
Dela Rosa also criticized the current administration, labeling it as “oppressive.” When asked if he had a message for President Marcos, the senator conveyed feelings of betrayal. He recounted a conversation at Malacañang where Marcos allegedly assured him of non-cooperation with the ICC, fearing potential repercussions for his own family. Dela Rosa recalled Marcos saying, “Hinding hindi ako magko-cooperate sa ICC… after ninyo, who’s next? Baka kami na naman.”
The senator’s sentiments reflect a deep sense of betrayal, emphasizing that the President’s actions contradict prior assurances.
Dela Rosa, who previously described himself as the second most accused in the ICC’s investigation into Duterte’s drug war, served as the chief of the Philippine National Police during the former president’s aggressive campaign against illegal drugs. His recent statements highlight internal tensions and differing perspectives within the Philippine government regarding international legal proceedings and national sovereignty.
This development raises questions about the Philippines’ stance on international accountability and the dynamics between current and former administrations. The situation underscores the complexities of balancing domestic policies with international obligations, especially concerning contentious issues like the war on drugs.
Slam duterte and yourself! Crime does not pay… You are the ones that causes trouble to yourselves.. Justice to the thousands of people killed mercilessly without due process during your evil war on drugs… No one is above the law!
how about killing innocent people under drugs of criminal? can you elaborate where is the due process? can we call it non merciless? think about..not for those who the victim of war on drugs.. where is the justice of innocent people..