Bato Dela Rosa May Seek Senate Refuge if ICC Moves for Arrest
3 min read
MARCH 17,2025
MANILA, Philippines – Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa may seek asylum in the Senate if the International Criminal Court (ICC) attempts to arrest him, Senate President Francis Escudero confirmed on Monday, March 17.
In a press briefing, Escudero explained that other senators facing legal challenges have received similar privileges. “Hindi para sa akin na pigilan si Senator Bato na magtungo dito, desisyon niya yun. Pero ang hangganan siguro nun ay hanggang makakuha at klaro na ang magiging pasya ng Korte sa kanyang pag-avail ng kanyang judicial remedies na karapatan niya,” Escudero stated. (It is not up to me to stop Senator Bato from seeking refuge here; that is his decision. But the limit will be once the Court has made a clear decision on the judicial remedies he is entitled to.)
Senate as a Safe Haven for Lawmakers
Under existing laws, legislators can seek protection from arrest in the Senate only when Congress is in session. However, Escudero noted that as a matter of institutional courtesy, the Senate may allow Dela Rosa temporary refuge. He cited past cases of former senators Antonio Trillanes IV and Leila de Lima, who sought sanctuary in the Senate amid legal troubles.
While the Senate may provide temporary protection, Escudero acknowledged that law enforcement could wait outside its premises. “We will try to afford him every opportunity to avail of the legal remedies he is entitled to,” Escudero said.
RELATED STORY: Bato Dela Rosa-ICC Won’t Touch ‘Even a Hair’ on You, Marcos
Bato Dela Rosa ICC Case and Legal Options
The former national police chief turned senator faces scrutiny from the ICC for his role in Duterte’s war on drugs. Dela Rosa has already filed a Supreme Court petition challenging the ICC’s authority over him and former President Rodrigo Duterte. Local authorities arrested Duterte on March 11 and turned him over to the ICC for alleged crimes against humanity.
Despite speculation about seeking refuge, Escudero clarified that Dela Rosa has not officially informed him of any intent to stay in the Senate. Instead, he was merely exploring his legal options. Additionally, the Senate has not received any formal ICC request for documents related to the drug war investigation.
Duterte’s ICC Case and Bato Dela Rosa’s Role in the War on Drugs
The ICC’s case against Duterte stems from the thousands of deaths linked to the government’s anti-drug campaign. Official police reports cite at least 6,000 deaths, but human rights groups estimate the actual toll could be as high as 30,000.
Dela Rosa, a key figure in Duterte’s drug war, insists he is not evading the law. However, his possible move to seek Senate asylum highlights the growing tension between Philippine authorities and the international tribunal.
Key Takeaways on Bato Dela Rosa and ICC Arrest:
- Senator Bato Dela Rosa may seek temporary refuge in the Senate if the ICC moves to arrest him.
- The Senate has previously granted asylum to embattled lawmakers like Trillanes and De Lima.
- Escudero stressed that Dela Rosa still has legal remedies available.
- The ICC continues to investigate the controversial drug war, which claimed thousands of lives.
RELATED STORY: How the Philippine Drug War Led to His ICC Warrant
With the ICC’s investigation ongoing and the Philippine legal system weighing its response, all eyes are on whether Dela Rosa will take shelter within the Senate or face international legal proceedings head-on.
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