Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa could still be arrested if the International Criminal Court (ICC) issues a warrant against him, as his position as a lawmaker does not grant immunity, the Department of Justice (DOJ) said Tuesday.
“Actually, there is no such thing as immunity even if you are a legislator,” said Prosecutor General Richard Fadullon, stressing that legislative immunity only covers offenses punishable by less than six years while Congress is in session.
Fadullon confirmed the DOJ is reviewing options amid reports of an ICC arrest order against dela Rosa, who led the Philippine National Police (PNP) during former President Rodrigo Duterte’s war on drugs.
He added the department would await a Supreme Court ruling before acting, particularly on whether to follow the same approach used in Duterte’s case.
Chief State Counsel Dennis Arvin Chan said surrender would be the “faster approach” than pursuing extradition, which could take months.
Meanwhile, Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin clarified that the alleged ICC warrant has not been officially received through Interpol.