The Senate leadership is set to call an emergency caucus to determine how the chamber will respond if arrest warrants are issued against Senators Bong Go and Ronald dela Rosa, following their naming as “co-perpetrators” in the International Criminal Court (ICC) case against former President Rodrigo Duterte over the anti-drug campaign.
Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo Lacson said the chamber must collectively decide how to assist the two senators, including whether refuge within Senate premises could be an option.
“Pag-uusapan namin yan. Kung magiging desisyon ng nakararami, kung anong tulong ang maibibigay sa aming dalawang kasamahan. We’ll just cross the bridge when we get there kasi wala pa naman tayo doon.”
Lacson noted that speculation continues until warrants are officially issued, but possible procedures could involve red notices and Interpol coordination.
The caucus may also review constitutional provisions on legislative immunity, which cover lawmakers only during session and for offenses punishable by six years or less—conditions unlikely to apply to international crimes.
He acknowledged the challenge the situation poses for the chamber, particularly with dela Rosa’s prolonged absence from sessions since November 2024 amid rumors of an impending warrant.
“Medyo nakakalungkot kasi mga kasamahan namin, si Sen. Bato, kapwa ko pa PMAer, noong niyang unang naiulat na may warrant of arrest. At hindi siya pumapasok.”
Lacson emphasized that senators share concern for Go and dela Rosa and underscored the need for coordinated action once ICC proceedings move forward.