‘One at a time’: PNP sees no problem in case more ICC arrest warrants are issued

The Philippine National Police (PNP) said it is fully aligned with what it described as law enforcement partners in enforcing the possible additional arrest warrants from the International Criminal Court (ICC).

The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) earlier said it received reports of more names that will be subjected to ICC arrest warrants over the crimes against humanity and Malacañang later said that if that happens, the warrants will immediately be served following the delays that led to the disappearance of Sen. Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa.

PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez, Jr. said the police organization continues to anchor its actions on due process and established legal frameworks, along with other law enforcement agencies.

“We remain fully committed to our mandate of upholding the rule of law, including the enforcement of any legal orders. As officers of the law, this is our sworn duty. We in the PNP remain true to that commitment to the Filipino people,” said Nartatez.

“Our personnel will only act upon orders issued by proper authorities, ensuring that they are in accordance with existing rules and protocols,” he added.

But in the meantime, the focus is on Dela Rosa.

Background discussions within law enforcement circles include references to existing and potential ICC actions involving public officials, including Dela Rosa, who is facing a standing arrest warrant from the ICC related to alleged crimes against humanity.

Despite these developments, Nartatez stressed that operational readiness is guided by strict protocol and inter-agency coordination rather than speculation or informal reports.

He added that discipline and adherence to procedure remain central to all police actions, particularly in sensitive international legal matters that may require coordinated enforcement.

‘’As a professional and disciplined institution, the PNP ensures that all actions remain consistent with standard operating procedures,’’ Nartatez said. — Aaron Recuenco