ICC Suspects in Duterte Drug War, include 2 PNP former Chiefs, active high-ranking officials

ICC Names Suspects in Duterte Drug War: What's Next?

President Bongbong Marcos has received a document from the International Criminal Court (ICC) identifying individuals suspected of involvement in the controversial Duterte Drug War according to former Senator Antonio Trillanes. This document includes the names of key figures from the administration of former President Rodrigo Duterte and their possible involvement in human rights violations.

Who Are the Suspects?

Senator Ronaldo de la Rosa

Senator Ronaldo de la Rosa, who served as the Chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP) under the Duterte Administration, is one of the primary suspects named by the ICC. Since 2016, de la Rosa has been implicated in the drug war operations that resulted in numerous deaths.

General Oscar Albayalde

Also named is General Oscar Albayalde, who succeeded de la Rosa as PNP Chief. Like his predecessor, Albayalde faces allegations of involvement in the violent anti-drug campaigns.

Other Officials

In addition to de la Rosa and Albayalde, the ICC document also identifies former Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) Chief Romeo Caramat Jr., former National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) Commissioner Edilberto Leonardo, and former Chief Intelligence Officer Eleazar Mata as suspects in the Duterte Drug War.

What Should Be Done?

Statement from Trillanes

According to former Senator Antonio Trillanes, it is now up to President Marcos’ administration to decide how to proceed with the information received from the ICC. The government's next steps will dictate how the allegations are addressed and whether justice will be served for the victims of the drug war.

Response from de la Rosa

Meanwhile, Senator de la Rosa stated that there is nothing new in this news. Since 2016, he has been accused of involvement in the drug war. Despite the widespread allegations, he continues to deny any involvement in the alleged human rights violations.

The arrival of the document from the International Criminal Court to President Bongbong Marcos marks a significant development in the controversial issue of the Duterte Drug War. As the public awaits the administration’s decision, accountability and justice for the victims of violence remain crucial. The coming days and weeks will be critical in determining the country's direction in light of these serious allegations.