Business · Singapore Bureau
Philippines Defends Reward for Fugitive Senator Facing ICC Charges
The Philippine government has authorized a 50 million peso bounty for information leading to the arrest of a former police chief turned senator who is wanted by the International Criminal Court. The move underscores Manila's complicated relationship with the ICC over investigations into the country's anti-drug campaign.
LSN Singapore ·
Philippine authorities have mounted a 50 million peso (approximately S$1 million) reward programme to locate Ronald "Bato" Dela Rosa, a sitting senator and former national police chief who faces arrest warrants from the International Criminal Court. The bounty reflects the government's effort to apprehend Dela Rosa, who remains at large despite the ICC's investigation into alleged crimes against humanity linked to the Philippines' controversial war on drugs.
Dela Rosa's position as a senator has complicated efforts to detain him, as he continues to enjoy legislative immunity while remaining in the country. The ICC investigation centres on extrajudicial killings and other serious violations allegedly committed during the anti-drug operations that occurred under former President Rodrigo Duterte's administration, when Dela Rosa served as Philippine National Police chief.
The Philippine government's decision to post the bounty signals an official stance on cooperating with international justice mechanisms, though domestic political sensitivities remain acute. Dela Rosa maintains supporters within portions of the Philippine government and public who view the ICC investigation as foreign interference in domestic affairs.
The bounty programme represents an escalation in pressure on the fugitive senator and suggests authorities are intensifying efforts to bring him into custody, regardless of his legislative status. Whether the financial incentive will yield results remains uncertain given the complex interplay between Philippine nationalism and international legal obligations.