The Philippine government has announced a bounty for the capture of Senator Ronald dela Rosa, who is wanted by the International Criminal Court (ICC) for alleged crimes against humanity. This decision follows an arrest warrant issued by the ICC, which was unsealed in May 2025, nearly a year after the court ordered his arrest. Dela Rosa, known for his role as the top enforcer of former President Rodrigo Duterte’s controversial anti-drug campaign, has reportedly been in hiding since the warrant was made public.
The bounty has been set at approximately US$786,000, reflecting the government's serious stance on the matter. Dela Rosa, a former police chief, has faced increasing scrutiny over his involvement in the violent crackdown that resulted in thousands of deaths during Duterte's presidency. The announcement of the bounty comes as the ICC continues to pursue accountability for alleged human rights violations in the Philippines, particularly those related to the anti-drug operations that have drawn international condemnation.S2
The timing of this bounty coincides with heightened tensions surrounding the ICC's investigation into the Philippines' drug war, as it comes just over a month before the ICC's next scheduled proceedings. The Philippine government’s actions signal a significant development in its ongoing relationship with the ICC, which has faced challenges in its efforts to investigate alleged atrocities committed under Duterte's administration. Dela Rosa's fate now hangs in the balance as the government seeks to enforce the ICC's mandate.S1S2