Philippine senator wanted by the International Criminal Court flees from Senate
NBC News • • world
Key Points:
- Philippine Senator Ronald dela Rosa, wanted by the International Criminal Court (ICC) for alleged crimes against humanity, fled from Senate protection following a chaotic incident involving gunfire from security personnel.
- The escape occurred amid political turmoil, with Senate President Alan Cayetano denying any obstruction of justice and stating dela Rosa was free to leave as no ICC arrest warrant was seen on site.
- Dela Rosa faces charges related to the murder of at least 32 people during his tenure as national police chief under former President Rodrigo Duterte, who is also wanted by the ICC for similar allegations.
- The incident has intensified political tensions between the Duterte family and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., with Vice President Sara Duterte accusing Marcos of orchestrating her father's "kidnapping" and facing impeachment proceedings herself.
- The Senate is set to convene an impeachment court soon to prepare for the trial of Vice President Sara Duterte, amid ongoing disputes and shifting alliances within the Philippine political landscape.