The Senate is ready to defend Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa should the International Criminal Court (ICC) issue an arrest warrant against him, but only within the legal process and with proper remedies, according to Senator Alan Peter Cayetano.
Dela Rosa, accused in connection with the Duterte administration’s anti-drug campaign, had earlier said he would seek protection from Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero to avoid possible transfer to authorities if the ICC issues a warrant.
When asked if the Senate could protect dela Rosa even during congressional recess, Cayetano said it was a “touchy subject.”
Cayetano insisted that legal guidance from the Supreme Court would be necessary if such a situation arises.
He also clarified that the concept of sanctuary is only to ensure the senator’s legal rights and the integrity of the Senate, and not to serve as a separate entity beyond the reach of the law.
Escudero had previously stated that he would not allow authorities to enter the Senate to arrest dela Rosa.
This would be the case if dela Rosa sought protection and remained in the Senate should the ICC issue an arrest warrant against him.
According to him, based on rules and practice, the Senate does not allow the arrest of any of its members within the institution, whether Congress is in session or not.
He said this is not based on law but on what is called “institutional courtesy,” which has become a Senate tradition and is also part of their long-standing rules.
