The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Sunday clarified that it has not received any official arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court (ICC) against former national police chief and now Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, amid growing public speculation surrounding the international tribunal’s investigation into the Duterte administration’s anti-drug campaign.
PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. emphasized that the police organization would only act based on lawful directives and established legal procedures, underscoring the agency’s commitment to due process despite the politically charged atmosphere surrounding the issue.
“The Philippine National Police is always ready to fulfill its mandate, but any action on our part will always be anchored on lawful orders, existing procedures, and due process,” Nartatez said.
Dela Rosa, who served as the country’s top police official during former President Rodrigo Duterte’s administration, has long been linked to the ICC’s investigation into alleged human rights violations tied to the government’s bloody anti-illegal drug operations.
While acknowledging heightened public attention on the matter, the PNP chief stressed that the organization’s current priority is maintaining readiness rather than focusing on personalities involved in the case.
“At this stage, our focus is preparedness and institutional readiness, not personalities,” Nartatez said. “The PNP remains professional and apolitical in carrying out its mandate regardless of the individuals involved.”
Behind the scenes, the police force has reportedly begun tightening operational protocols to ensure discipline and proper coordination should any legal developments arise. Commanders across various units have been instructed to strictly observe the chain of command and comply with all legal requirements in future operations.
According to Nartatez, preparations include operational planning, legal coordination, and accountability measures for personnel involved in sensitive assignments.
The PNP leadership is also keeping a close watch on internal security, particularly unauthorized disclosures that could compromise police operations. In a stern warning, Nartatez said personnel caught leaking confidential information or violating operational procedures would face serious consequences.
“The PNP has internal monitoring and accountability mechanisms in place to address unauthorized disclosures,” he said. “Personnel found leaking sensitive information or violating operational protocols will face administrative and criminal sanctions.”
The statement comes as discussions surrounding the ICC probe continue to stir political tensions, placing the country’s law enforcement institutions under intense public scrutiny. Despite the mounting attention, the PNP maintained that its actions would remain grounded on legal authority and institutional discipline.