The Philippine National Police (PNP) is bracing for potential international legal action as the International Criminal Court (ICC) continues its investigation into the country’s controversial war on drugs. Newly appointed PNP Chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III has confirmed that contingency plans are in place should the ICC issue an arrest warrant for Sen. Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa.
“We’ll cross that bridge when we get there,” Torre remarked during a press briefing at Camp Crame, indicating that while specific details remain confidential, the PNP is prepared to act if necessary.
Sen. Dela Rosa, who served as the first PNP chief under former President Rodrigo Duterte from 2016 to 2018, is often referred to as the architect of the administration’s aggressive anti-drug campaign, known as Oplan Tokhang. This campaign has been linked to thousands of deaths, drawing criticism from human rights organizations worldwide.
Kristina Conti, an assistant to counsel at the ICC, has indicated that Dela Rosa, along with former PNP chief Oscar Albayalde, could be among those next to face arrest warrants for their roles in the drug war.
The ICC’s investigation follows the arrest of former President Duterte in March 2025, who was apprehended by the PNP under Torre’s leadership and extradited to The Hague to face charges of crimes against humanity.
As the ICC continues its proceedings, the PNP’s readiness to respond to potential arrest warrants signifies a significant shift in the Philippines’ approach to international accountability and justice.
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