The Senate prevented the arrest on May 13, of Senator Ronald dela Rosa, wanted for crimes against humanity in the International Criminal Court (ICC). Think a moment of the horrible implications of what happened.
This is more than a procedural lapse. Political power shielded him from accountability. A legislative chamber cannot become a criminal sanctuary. Democratic governance demands better than this.
The rule of law applies to everyone equally. Political standing does not exempt anyone from arrest. Powerful figures must face lawful orders like all citizens. When they do not, a damaging message is sent. Some people, it seems, are above the law.
Dela Rosa served as chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP). He oversaw the bloody anti-drug campaign under Duterte. Thousands died under his watch as PNP chief. He later became a senator, gaining institutional protection. That protection has now been grotesquely abused.
This is precisely the reason why we cannot trust our institutions to try President Duterte, Senator Bato, and others that will soon be charged. This is why we need them brought to justice in the ICC.
