MANILA, Philippines — The Supreme Court (SC) has denied Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa’s petition for a temporary restraining order (TRO), effectively allowing authorities to proceed with the enforcement of the International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant against him.
In a 9-5-1 vote, the high court rejected Dela Rosa’s request for immediate injunctive relief, although the main case questioning the legality and enforceability of the ICC warrant in the Philippines is still pending before the court.
The ruling means there is currently no legal barrier stopping law enforcement agencies from carrying out the arrest warrant issued by the ICC, where Dela Rosa faces allegations of crimes against humanity linked to the Duterte administration’s anti-drug campaign.
The ICC case stems from killings connected to “Oplan Double Barrel” between 2016 and 2018, when Dela Rosa served as chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP).
Following the decision, the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) said it remains ready to continue operations to locate the senator, whose whereabouts have remain unknown after he left the Senate premises on May 14, 2026.
Government officials also maintained that the warrant remains valid unless overturned by the courts.
While the SC ruling does not yet decide on the broader constitutional questions surrounding the ICC’s jurisdiction in the Philippines, legal observers say the denial of the TRO is a significant development that clears the way for authorities to move forward with enforcement efforts against dela Rosa.
Written by Melrose Kyrene Aquino
Melrose Kyrene Aquino is a dedicated campus journalist and contributor. Their insightful writing sparks meaningful conversations and keeps the community informed.
