Philippine Senator Faces ICC Arrest as Public Rallies for Support

Senator Ronald dela Rosa, a central figure in former President Rodrigo Duterte's controversial war on drugs, revealed on Wednesday that his arrest by the International Criminal Court (ICC) is imminent. Dela Rosa, who has been taking refuge in his legislative office since Monday, called on the public to block any attempts to extradite him to The Hague.

The arrest warrant, made public on Monday, accuses the 64-year-old and his former superior, Duterte, of crimes against humanity during their anti-drug crusade. The campaign led to thousands of deaths, with human rights organizations accusing the police of systemic extrajudicial killings—a claim the police deny.

The situation around the Senate complex remains tense, as security forces and military personnel stand guard amidst protests. Dela Rosa has contested the charges, arguing that the ICC lacks jurisdiction following the Philippines' withdrawal from the Rome Statute in 2018.

(With inputs from agencies.)