Manila: Malaca±ang on Tuesday announced that authorities are moving at the right pace in implementing the International Criminal Court's (ICC) arrest warrant against Senator Ronald dela Rosa, who faces charges of crimes against humanity related to drug war deaths.

According to Philippines News Agency, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro stated in an interview with dzBB that law enforcement agencies are actively conducting operations linked to the arrest order against Dela Rosa. She emphasized that while the Palace receives regular updates on the matter, operational specifics are managed by Justice Secretary Fredderick Vida.

Castro confirmed the existence of a directive from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to enforce the warrant, highlighting the difficulties involved in apprehending individuals who are in hiding and may receive assistance in evading capture. She stressed the importance of authorities remaining focused on their tasks to ensure successful implementation of the arrest warrant.

The Philippine National Police has deployed tracker teams to execute the arrest warrant after the Supreme Court rejected Dela Rosa's petition for a temporary restraining order due to lack of merit. Dela Rosa is listed as a 'defendant' and 'at large' by the ICC, accused of participating in a 'common plan' to eliminate suspected drug offenders during the previous administration's anti-drug campaign.

Dela Rosa, who was under Senate protective custody, left the Senate premises on May 14 to avoid potential arrest. Castro reiterated the National Bureau of Investigation's earlier statement that Dela Rosa might be 'armed and dangerous,' indicating his lack of intention to surrender.

She referenced a past statement by former President Rodrigo Duterte, suggesting that individuals who feel cornered may act unpredictably. Castro noted that both Dela Rosa and Duterte have been close allies, sharing similar actions and positions, which supports the NBI director's warning about Dela Rosa's potential threat level.