DAVAO CITY — Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla confirmed on January 13, 2026, that former Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa remains in Davao City and there is still no arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC) against him or former President Rodrigo Duterte in connection with the drug war investigation.
Remulla made the statement after visiting dela Rosa in Davao, where the senator has been staying since late 2025 amid speculation about potential ICC action. The secretary described dela Rosa as being in good spirits and continuing normal activities, including family time and local engagements.
Key points from Remulla’s update:
- No official communication or warrant has been received from the ICC or any international body.
- The Philippine government maintains its position that the ICC has no jurisdiction over the country following the 2019 withdrawal from the Rome Statute.
- Dela Rosa is not in hiding and is freely moving within the country.
- The DILG continues to monitor the situation but sees no basis for any domestic law enforcement action related to the ICC probe at this time.
Remulla added:
“As far as we know, there is still no warrant. Bato is here in Davao, living normally. If there ever is any development, we will handle it according to Philippine laws and processes.”
The comment comes amid ongoing ICC investigation into alleged crimes against humanity during the Duterte administration’s drug war (2011–2019). Prosecutor Karim Khan has stated that evidence collection is advancing, but no arrest warrants have been publicly issued yet.
Dela Rosa, a vocal critic of the ICC, has repeatedly said he is not afraid of any warrant and would face any process head-on if it comes.
Here are photos from Remulla’s visit to Davao — the secretary with dela Rosa, local scenes, and the relaxed atmosphere described.
The situation remains calm on the ground — but the ICC shadow continues to loom over Duterte-era officials.