Senator Dela Rosa Announces Senate Inquiry
Reelected Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa revealed on Friday, May 23, that he will initiate a Senate investigation into the recent threatening of retired police officers by International Criminal Court (ICC) investigators. According to sources familiar with the matter, the senator disclosed an alleged ongoing operation by the ICC pressuring retired Philippine National Police (PNP) officers to sign affidavits that would implicate him and former President Rodrigo Duterte.
This operation is reportedly taking place in a hotel in Pasay City. Dela Rosa emphasized the urgency of addressing this issue, stating, “Magka-conduct kami ng hearing at ‘yung mga tao na involved diyan, ‘yung mga Pilipino na mga taksil sa ating soberanya ay mananagot ‘yan.” He warned that those Filipinos betraying the country’s sovereignty will be held accountable.
Concerns Over ICC Investigators’ Actions
The former police chief, who served under the Duterte administration, made these remarks in response to President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s recent statement about his willingness to reconcile with the Duterte family. Dela Rosa challenged the sincerity of this reconciliation, urging the president to prioritize the removal of ICC investigators currently operating in Pasay hotels.
He explained, “Kung sinsero talaga siya sa kanyang sinasabi, ang unang-una niyang gawin is palayasin niya ‘yung mga ICC investigators na andiyan ngayon sa mga hotel diyan sa Pasay na nananakot sa mga retired na mga pulis na pinipilit nila mag-sign ng affidavit na ididiin na kami ni Pangulong Duterte, otherwise, sila daw ang ididiin, ‘yung mga pulis na pinagtatawag nila.” This means if President Marcos is truly sincere, he should expel those ICC agents who are coercing retired officers to testify against Duterte or themselves.
PNP Chief Calls for Protection of Retired Officers
Further emphasizing the gravity of the situation, a former PNP chief urged the police force to safeguard its retired members. Dela Rosa condemned the intimidation tactics, highlighting the dedication of these officers who have devoted their lives to serving the country.
He also pointed out the contradiction between these developments and the Marcos administration’s official stance of not recognizing ICC jurisdiction. “Walang sinseridad ‘yan kung gano’n. Ang pinakaunang gawin ni Pangulong Marcos dapat, palayasin niya ‘yan, i-deport niya ‘yang mga ICC investigators na ‘yan na andito ngayon na nananakot sa ating mga kapulisan na magtestigo! ‘Yan ang dapat niyang gawin kung siya ay sinsero sa kanyang reconciliation na hinahangad,” the senator stressed.
Looking Ahead: Senate Inquiry and Accountability
The upcoming Senate hearing aims to hold accountable those involved in threatening retired police officers and to clarify the government’s position regarding the ICC’s presence in the country. Sources indicate that this investigation will scrutinize the compliance of local authorities and ensure that the rights and safety of former law enforcement personnel are protected.
As tensions rise around this issue, the inquiry will also test the government’s commitment to national sovereignty and the rule of law amid international pressures.
For more news and updates on ICC threatening of retired police, visit Filipinokami.com.