Philippines orders arrest of fugitive Senator sought by ICC

The Philippine government on Thursday (May 21, 2026) ordered police to arrest a Senator who is wanted by the International Criminal Court (ICC) over his role in former President Rodrigo Duterte’s deadly drug crackdown.

“I would like to confirm that the Philippine law enforcement agencies which would include the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) are now tasked to effect the arrest of Senator Ronald ‘Bato’ dela Rosa,” Justice Secretary Fredderick Vida told reporters.

The Philippine Supreme Court’s interim ruling on Wednesday (May 20, 2026) denying the Philippine former police chief Dela Rosa’s bid for a temporary restraining order means the ICC warrant can now be enforced.