THE Philippine National Police (PNP) has declared it is on full alert status amid reports that the International Criminal Court (ICC) may soon issue additional arrest warrants targeting local public officials.
In an official statement released Monday, PNP Chief General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. emphasized that the national police force remains steadfast in its duty to uphold the rule of law and is prepared to act on any legal directive that may be handed down. He assured the public that the agency is fully aligned with its law enforcement counterparts as they monitor developments related to the international court’s proceedings.
General Nartatez further revealed that law enforcement agencies have already engaged in preliminary or “background discussions” regarding how to enforce both existing and potential ICC orders.
These preparations specifically include measures concerning Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, who is currently wanted by the international body. Dela Rosa stands accused of involvement in alleged crimes committed during the administration of former President Rodrigo Duterte, particularly linked to the government’s controversial war on drugs. Human rights organizations estimate that the campaign resulted in as many as 30,000 deaths, events that the ICC has been investigating for possible crimes against humanity.
The PNP chief reiterated the force’s commitment to carry out its mandate, though he did not elaborate on the specific protocols or legal bases that would govern such enforcement actions.
His statement follows recent remarks from Malacañang indicating that any warrant issued by the ICC would be enforced immediately upon receipt. As legal and diplomatic debates continue regarding the country’s engagement with the international tribunal, the PNP maintains it stands ready to implement whatever decisions are finalized, while ensuring that all actions remain consistent with national laws and constitutional provisions.
