Gunfire erupted at the Philippine Senate on Wednesday, causing panic as security forces entered the building following threats of imminent arrest made by a prominent politician sought by the International Criminal Court (ICC). Senate Secretary Mark Llandro Mendoza confirmed there were no immediate casualties.
Senator Ronald dela Rosa, a former police chief known for enforcing President Rodrigo Duterte’s controversial anti-drug campaign, had called for public support to prevent his arrest and transfer to the ICC. The Hague-based court recently issued an arrest warrant for dela Rosa on charges of crimes against humanity, mirroring accusations faced by Duterte as he awaits trial at the ICC.
In a video plea from his Senate office, dela Rosa sought assistance to avoid extradition to The Hague. Law enforcement officers, believed to be from the National Bureau of Investigation, reportedly fired shots while attempting to enter the Senate premises.
Despite conflicting reports, NBI Director Melvin Matibag denied deploying agents to the Senate. Military personnel were observed providing security assistance at the Senate’s request to secure the facility.
Interior Minister Jonvic Remulla stated that the shooter’s identity remained unclear, emphasizing the need to review security footage. Assuring dela Rosa’s safety, Remulla confirmed that no arrest would be made. The ICC’s press office did not immediately respond to requests for comments.
Dela Rosa, once Duterte’s right-hand man during the violent drug crackdown, has consistently denied involvement in extrajudicial killings. Human rights groups have criticized the campaign, alleging police involvement in widespread murders and cover-ups.
The Senate remained heavily guarded amid protests, with calls for dela Rosa’s arrest. Senate President Alan Peter Cayetano reassured that government personnel were not involved in the Senate incident, following discussions with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
Dela Rosa, who resurfaced at the Senate after a period of absence, has urged Marcos not to hand him over to the ICC. He has also sought legal protection through an emergency petition to the Supreme Court, challenging any potential transfer to The Hague.
Duterte’s decision to withdraw the Philippines from the ICC in 2018 has sparked legal debates on the ICC’s jurisdiction over crimes committed while the country was a member. Duterte faces trial at the ICC, maintaining his innocence amidst ongoing legal proceedings.