The Philippine government has not received any formal communication regarding reports that the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued arrest warrants for Senator Christopher “Bong” Go and two former police generals, Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla confirmed on Wednesday.
Remulla’s clarification followed a social media update from Davao City 1st District Representative Paolo Duterte, who claimed an insider told him about the alleged legal orders.
“A highly reliable source informed me that ICC arrest warrants against Senator Bong Go and two former police officers have already been issued,” the Davao City lawmaker wrote on social media.
Duterte, whose sister is Vice President Sara Duterte, criticized the current administration, accusing it of exploiting the international tribunal to target political adversaries.
“Wala na ba talagang katapusan ang administrasyong ito sa paggamit ng ICC bilang political weapon laban sa kanilang mga kalaban?” he said.
“Wala na ba talaga kayong awa o hiya sa pinag gagawa ninyu? Huwag gamitin ang mga ahensya ng gobyerno sa pag supil at pagpapa tahimik sa mga kalaban sa pulitika para lang mapagtakpan ang mas malaking issue ng pagnanakaw sa kaban ng bayan,” he added.
Despite the lawmaker’s allegations, Remulla maintained that neither the Department of the Interior and Local Government nor the Department of Justice had been notified by the ICC.
“We have no official communication to that effect,” he said in a text message.
“Just talked to SoJ, neither of us have received any formal notice,” he added, referring to Acting Justice Secretary Fredderick Vida.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) echoed this stance, stating they have not been served any paperwork regarding the rumored warrants.
Police Colonel Allen Rae Co, Officer-in-Charge of the PNP Public Information Office, reiterated that the national police force operates strictly under standard legal frameworks and validly transmitted orders.
“What we can say with certainty is that the PNP has always been and will remain an institution that respects and upholds the rule of law,” Co said.
The PNP added that if a legitimate warrant from a proper authority reaches them through correct legal networks, they will execute their responsibilities following lawful protocols.
“We will not get ahead of the process, but we will never shy away from our duty,” the statement read.
The ICC’s ongoing investigation focuses on alleged crimes against humanity tied to the deadly anti-drug crackdown launched during the presidency of Rodrigo Duterte.
Meanwhile, a separate ICC arrest warrant has reportedly been issued for Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa concerning his leadership role in that same drug war. Dela Rosa has not made any public appearances since exiting the Senate grounds on May 13.