Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa began his career as a police officer in Davao City, eventually rising to serve as chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP) and later moving into legislative politics. His most noted role came during the nationwide anti‑drug campaign under former President Rodrigo Duterte—a campaign that has drawn warnings from international human‑rights bodies for alleged widespread extrajudicial killings.
Documents released by the International Criminal Court (ICC) identify Dela Rosa as a figure of interest. He is mentioned in the ICC’s submissions as having been involved in forming key directives tied to the anti‑drug operations, which alleged victims and advocacy groups argue could amount to crimes against humanity. Government officials, however, say they have not yet received any formal communication confirming an arrest warrant against Dela Rosa.
In response to the scrutiny, Dela Rosa has publicly stated that he is willing to face a potential ICC warrant and has challenged the international tribunal’s handling of the case. He has also claimed that investigators have pressured retired police officers to sign affidavits implicating him and others. While the Philippines withdrew from the ICC in 2019, the court maintains it retains jurisdiction over alleged crimes committed during the period when the country was a member.