DOJ, DILG Deny Information on Senator Dela Rosa's Alleged Arrest

Amid circulating rumors on Tuesday afternoon that Senator Ronald "Bato" Dela Rosa had been arrested, both the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) stated that they have "no information" regarding such an event. These statements come amidst speculation that the International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued an arrest warrant for Dela Rosa in connection with alleged crimes against humanity faced by former President Rodrigo Duterte before the tribunal in The Hague. Duterte and Dela Rosa are accused of being co-conspirators in charges of murder and attempted murder, linked to killings under Duterte's war on drugs during his presidency and his tenure as mayor of Davao City. "We cannot confirm that information, at least not yet. We have not received word that it actually happened. That is all I can say for now," said a DOJ spokesperson. Interior Secretary Juanito Victor Remulla also told reporters, "As far as the PNP [is concerned], we have no information to that effect." Dela Rosa, a former chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP) under the Duterte administration, played a prominent role in leading the drug war. The spread of these rumors highlights public interest in the ICC's investigation and the potential legal proceedings.