Wazzup Pilipinas!?
In a recent political exchange, senatorial candidate Liza Maza criticized Senator Ronald "Bato" dela Rosa's assertion that his renewed bid for the Senate is a divine mission to continue the fight against illegal drugs. Maza, a former representative of the Gabriela Party-list, contended that dela Rosa's candidacy is more of a "konsumisyon" (nuisance) than a mission, emphasizing that his true obligation is to answer for his alleged involvement in the controversial war on drugs under former President Rodrigo Duterte.
Dela Rosa, who served as the chief of the Philippine National Police during the height of Duterte's anti-drug campaign, is currently under investigation by the International Criminal Court (ICC) for possible crimes against humanity. Despite the Philippines' withdrawal from the ICC in 2019, the court maintains jurisdiction over alleged crimes committed while the country was still a member. Dela Rosa has consistently dismissed the ICC's authority, stating that there is no need for its intervention given the local convictions of police officers involved in the drug war.
In a Senate inquiry held in October 2024, former President Duterte admitted to the existence of a "death squad" during his tenure as mayor of Davao City, aimed at controlling crime. This revelation has intensified calls for accountability, with human rights groups documenting approximately 1,400 suspicious killings in Davao during Duterte's 22-year mayoral period. Critics argue that his presidential war on drugs mirrored these methods, resulting in the deaths of more than 6,200 people.
The current administration has signaled a shift in its stance towards the ICC investigation. Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla indicated openness to discussions and potential cooperation with the ICC, marking a significant departure from the previous administration's refusal to acknowledge the court's jurisdiction. Executive Secretary Lucas P. Bersamin further stated that the Philippines would "respond favorably" to any Interpol requests related to the ICC's investigation into the drug war.
As the 2025 senatorial elections approach, the discourse surrounding accountability for the war on drugs continues to be a polarizing issue. Maza's remarks underscore the growing demand for transparency and justice, while dela Rosa remains steadfast in his defense, framing his candidacy as a continuation of his mission against illegal drugs. The evolving political landscape suggests that the electorate's response to these developments will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the nation's approach to law enforcement and human rights.
Ross is known as the Pambansang Blogger ng Pilipinas - An Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Professional by profession and a Social Media Evangelist by heart.
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