An International Criminal Court (ICC) assistant to counsel, Atty.Kristina Conti, raised concerns that recent statements and actions by key Filipino political figures could have implications for ongoing ICC proceedings involving former President Rodrigo Duterte’s war on drugs.

Conti specifically pointed to Senate President Alan Peter Cayetano’s public defense of the Duterte administration’s anti-drug campaign, where he described it as a “pro-life” initiative.

According to her, such remarks may be interpreted by the ICC as evidence that Duterte still maintains strong political influence in the Philippines, which could be relevant to considerations about his potential release or risk of evasion.

She suggested that this perceived continuing influence could be seen as a factor that might affect judicial decisions, particularly regarding flight risk or interference with evidence.

Conti also commented on the situation involving Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa and alleged issues around his movement, noting that under ICC rules, actions that may amount to obstruction of justice could fall under Article 70, which covers offenses against the administration of justice.

She mentioned that Senator Robin Padilla could be considered “most at risk” of accountability if it is proven that he played a role in facilitating any movement that allowed dela Rosa to evade proper legal processes, although she stressed that evidence of systematic action would be required.

The ICC has reportedly been informed of these developments, and Conti noted that dela Rosa is among individuals named in connection with the crimes against humanity case related to the Duterte administration’s anti-drug campaign.

She added that several individuals, including Senator Bong Go, could potentially be subject to arrest warrants, depending on their level of responsibility.

Meanwhile, the ICC Trial Chamber III is set to hold its first status conference on May 27, 2026, where procedural matters such as trial schedules and language use may be discussed.Conti expressed hope that local Philippine languages such as Bisaya or Tagalog could be considered in the proceedings.