Shooting Erupts at Philippine Senate Building Amidst Arrest Attempt of Senator Wanted by ICC

More than a dozen rounds of gunfire were exchanged at the Philippine Senate building after police and marine forces arrived to arrest a senator wanted by the International Criminal Court (ICC) on charges of crimes against humanity. According to Al Jazeera, the shooting occurred within minutes after rifle-armed and armored troops ascended the parliament stairs on Wednesday evening, forcing journalists to seek safety. Reports indicate approximately 15 rounds were fired, but it remains unclear who discharged the weapons.

Senator Ronald dela Rosa, anticipating his possible arrest, appealed to the public not to allow his detention inside the Senate premises. In a video posted on Facebook on Wednesday, he said, “I appeal to you. Please help me. Do not allow any Filipino citizen to be sent to The Hague.” Following his message, law enforcement personnel began gathering outside the Senate building.

Dela Rosa, the former police chief, was the leading enforcer of ex-President Rodrigo Duterte’s controversial “war on drugs” campaign. On Tuesday, he expressed readiness to face justice domestically and urged President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. not to extradite him. Fearful of arrest, he remained inside his congressional office, asserting he had served the nation with integrity. The ICC issued an arrest warrant against dela Rosa on Monday, which was initially released in November. He faces charges of crimes against humanity. Additionally, the 81-year-old former President Duterte was also arrested last year on similar charges and is currently awaiting trial at The Hague.