Army offers assistance as deadline looms for dela Rosa surrender

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — The Philippine Army's 10th Infantry Division declared its readiness to assist law enforcement in apprehending Senator Ronald 'Bato' dela Rosa, as his voluntary surrender period comes to a close Friday. The former Philippine National Police chief has been summoned by the International Criminal Court to face allegations of crimes against humanity. Military officials said the 10th Infantry Division, based in Mindanao, would coordinate with police units to ensure the arrest proceeds smoothly if dela Rosa does not comply with the deadline voluntarily. The announcement underscores the gravity of the ICC warrant and the multi-agency approach authorities are prepared to undertake. Dela Rosa, a prominent political figure, has faced mounting legal pressure following the ICC's issuance of an arrest warrant related to his tenure leading the country's war on drugs. The one-week ultimatum period, which expires Friday, represents a final opportunity for the senator to surrender willingly before law enforcement moves to enforce the international order.