Gunshots at Philippine Senate amid arrest of ICC-warranted senator, tensions rise

International Desk: PNN

An incident of sudden gunfire and chaos occurred at the Philippine Senate following the arrest of a politician who is subject to an International Criminal Court (ICC) warrant. The situation caused panic inside the Senate building and led to a full lockdown of the area.

At the center of the incident is Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, who served as the national police chief during former President Rodrigo Duterte’s anti-drug campaign. Thousands of suspected individuals were reportedly killed during that campaign, which is now under investigation at the ICC for alleged crimes against humanity.

According to reports, after an arrest warrant was issued against dela Rosa, he remained inside the Senate building and called on the public to prevent his arrest. Tensions inside the Senate then escalated sharply.

Sudden gunfire was heard inside the Senate, prompting lawmakers, journalists, and staff to flee for safety. Steel doors were locked, and military and police personnel were deployed with heavy weapons.

The Senate Secretary claimed that gunfire occurred during a confrontation when the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) attempted to enter the building. However, the NBI chief denied the allegation, stating that none of their personnel were present at the scene at that time.

During the incident, dela Rosa went live on social media and alleged that there was a conspiracy to arrest him and take him to The Hague. He called on his supporters to resist.

Later, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. issued a video message urging the public to remain calm and ordered an investigation into the incident. He said it would be examined whether this was a planned disturbance.

Dela Rosa has long been known as a close ally of former President Duterte. Duterte faced widespread criticism for his hardline stance during the 2016–2018 anti-drug campaign, in which human rights groups allege many people were killed extrajudicially.

Meanwhile, the political situation in the Philippines has become increasingly tense. An impeachment process has been initiated against Vice President Sara Duterte over allegations of corruption and threats, and it is currently being tried in the Senate.

Analysts say that the presence of dela Rosa in the Senate and the influence of Duterte allies are creating new tensions in the country’s balance of power. The Philippines is now feared to be heading toward deeper political division and conflict.