PNP Chief Plt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. – Photo courtesy of the Office of the Chief PNP/Facebook.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) said it is preparing to act on the reported arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court against Senator Ronald Dela Rosa, pending a court order.
PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Randulf Tuaño said the police force remained guided by existing laws and lawful directives in addressing developments related to the ICC.
He explained that any enforcement action would depend on the issuance of a court order coursed through the National Central Bureau of Interpol and other concerned agencies.
Tuaño said the PNP would implement appropriate contingency plans and operational measures once legal requirements are in place, ensuring compliance with due process.
The ICC earlier confirmed that it sought the arrest of Dela Rosa in connection with its probe into the Duterte administration’s anti-drug campaign.
Dela Rosa resurfaced at the Senate on Monday after months of absence, as speculation grew over the possible issuance of the warrant.
Supporters gathered outside the Senate complex during the day, while law enforcement presence increased amid reports of an attempted arrest, leading to heightened tension in the area.
PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said their deployment was intended to maintain public order and secure the institution, adding that personnel were instructed to exercise maximum tolerance while remaining ready for any situation.