Bato Dela Rosa Breaks Silence on His Birthday: Rejects ICC, Demands Justice in PH
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Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa re-emerges publicly on his 64th birthday, insisting any legal cases against him be handled in Philippine courts.
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Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa resurfaced publicly on his 64th birthday, addressing his critics and rejecting the jurisdiction of the International Criminal Court (ICC) over his alleged role in the Duterte administration’s war on drugs.
In a Facebook post, Dela Rosa emphasized that justice must be pursued domestically, in Filipino courts, calling the ICC’s actions a form of foreign interference that could undermine national sovereignty.
“Justice Here on Our Shores”
Dela Rosa said he is “alive and well” and awaiting what he described as genuine justice. He argued that facing charges abroad would dishonor the sacrifices of national heroes and soldiers, framing his stance as an act of patriotism.
He challenged critics supporting ICC intervention, questioning why some Filipinos would be eager to surrender a fellow citizen to foreign authorities, and urged reflection on national pride and sovereignty.
Birthday Message to Supporters
The senator also thanked supporters for sending birthday greetings and prayers, saying their backing gave him strength. He expressed his birthday wish for a Philippines where justice is determined domestically, and Filipinos take pride in their own institutions.
ICC Context
Dela Rosa is reportedly among the key figures targeted by the ICC in connection with the drug war launched under former President Rodrigo Duterte, who has been detained by the court since March 11, 2025.
The senator faces potential charges of crimes against humanity, tied to thousands of deaths during the anti-drug campaign from 2016 to 2019, when he served as chief of the Philippine National Police and was widely seen as the operations’ main enforcer.