PNP: We have yet to receive arrest warrant vs. Dela Rosa

The Philippine National Police (PNP) said on Sunday that it has yet to receive an official arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court (ICC) against former top cop and now senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa.

In a statement, "the PNP clarified that it has not received any official arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court (ICC) targeting former police chief turned Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa."

PNP chief General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. added "the PNP is always ready to fulfill its mandate but any of our action will always be anchored on lawful orders, existing procedures, and due process.”

The ICC earlier clarified that it had not yet issued any new arrest warrants in connection with the crimes against humanity involving former President Rodrigo Duterte. It can be recalled that Dela Rosa was the PNP chief during the height of the Duterte administration’s bloody drug war campaign.

The Department of the Interior and Local Government also said that it has no information yet about the arrest warrant against Dela Rosa.

Dela Rosa has been absent in the Senate since November 11, 2025 after Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla alleged that the ICC issued a warrant of arrest against him over the previous administration’s drug war.

Dela Rosa’s last appearance was via an audio message during the launching of a coalition led by Duterte allies last April.

For its part, the PNP said that it’s ready to act on any possibilities.

“At this stage, our focus is preparedness and institutional readiness, not personalities. The PNP remains professional and apolitical in carrying out its mandate regardless of the individuals involved in these cases,” said Nartatez.

The PNP added that it won’t tolerate any “insider” leaks regarding the police’s tactical movements.

“At this stage, our focus is preparedness and institutional readiness, not personalities. The PNP remains professional and apolitical in carrying out its mandate regardless of the individuals involved in these cases,” said Nartatez. —Vince Angelo Ferreras/RF, GMA News