Tense Standoff Turns Chaotic in Philippine Senate
Gunfire erupted inside the Philippine Senate in Manila after authorities attempted to arrest Senator Ronald dela Rosa, a former police chief facing allegations tied to the country’s controversial anti-drug crackdown.
Witnesses inside the Senate building reported hearing several gunshots late Wednesday as tensions escalated between law enforcement personnel and supporters of the senator. Officials later confirmed that no injuries were reported during the incident.
The dramatic confrontation happened while dela Rosa remained under what allied senators described as “protective custody” inside the Senate complex.
Senator Faces ICC Crimes Against Humanity Charges
Dela Rosa is wanted by the International Criminal Court (ICC) over accusations connected to thousands of deaths during former President Rodrigo Duterte’s anti-drug campaign between 2016 and 2018.
The ICC warrant reportedly accuses the senator of crimes against humanity, including murder linked to anti-narcotics operations carried out while he served as the country’s national police chief.
Authorities attempted to detain the senator earlier this week, but he sought refuge inside the Senate building with support from political allies. Video footage circulating online reportedly showed scenes of panic as armed security personnel moved through hallways following the gunfire.
The senator has denied involvement in unlawful killings and insists he is willing to face legal proceedings only through Philippine courts.
Government Launches Investigation Into Senate Gunfire
Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. urged the public to remain calm and ordered an investigation into the shooting incident.
Senate officials described the atmosphere inside the building as highly emotional and tense. Security forces reviewed surveillance footage and began searching for the source of the gunfire shortly after the lockdown was imposed.
The political crisis has added to growing tensions in the Philippines, where divisions linked to the Duterte administration and ongoing ICC investigations continue to create national controversy.
Meanwhile, supporters and protesters gathered outside the Senate complex as authorities maintained heightened security across the area.
