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Court Orders Philippines to Surrender Ex-Senator Dela Rosa

5/17/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Justice Secretary Fredderick Vida said Philippines will comply with ICC and deem departure by Senator Ronald dela Rosa, who fled May 14, 2026 and wanted for crimes against humanity.
Supreme Court denied his order, ordered secretaries to comment, and, citing Republic Act 9851, directed the Solicitor General to surrender him to ICC.
Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla suspended Sergeant-at-Arms Mao Aplasca for six months after a shot in May 13 shootout.

History

Historical Context

In 2002 the International Criminal Court was founded, later securing former Liberian president Charles Taylor’s surrender in 2005 and his 50-year sentence in 2012, establishing that heads of state can be tried despite immunity claims. Inspired by that precedent, the Philippine Supreme Court invoked Republic Act 9851 on 14 May 2026 to order Senator Ronald dela Rosa’s surrender, prompting Justice Secretary Fred Vida’s pledge of ICC cooperation.

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Story summary

Justice Secretary Fredderick Vida said Philippines will comply with ICC and deem departure by Senator Ronald dela Rosa, who fled May 14, 2026 and wanted for crimes against humanity.
Supreme Court denied his order, ordered secretaries to comment, and, citing Republic Act 9851, directed the Solicitor General to surrender him to ICC.
Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla suspended Sergeant-at-Arms Mao Aplasca for six months after a shot in May 13 shootout.

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