Former Senator Antonio Trillanes IV has stated that Senator Bong Go could be the next individual to receive an arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court (ICC), following Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa. According to Trillanes, he has received information that a warrant is pending against Go related to charges of crimes against humanity, murder, and attempted murder. The former senator added that it might take several months before the warrant is issued, depending on the ICC's process. He emphasized that Go is linked to alleged extrajudicial killings during the administration of former President Rodrigo Duterte. Go was reported to the ICC because, during the height of the extrajudicial killings, he allegedly provided rewards for each assassination as the leader of the special operations group of Duterte's National Death Squad. Aside from Go, Trillanes also mentioned that former Philippine National Police chief Oscar Albayalde could potentially receive an ICC warrant. Bombo Radyo Philippines remains open to hearing the sides of Go and Albayalde regarding Trillanes' allegations.
Background on the ICC Case
The ICC is investigating crimes against humanity linked to the war on drugs under Duterte's administration. Trillanes has been a vocal critic of Duterte and his allies, consistently pushing for accountability. The issuance of an arrest warrant for Senator dela Rosa earlier this year set a precedent, and Trillanes believes Go and Albayalde are next in line.
Reactions and Implications
Political analysts suggest that if an ICC warrant is issued for Go, it could further strain relations between the Philippines and international bodies. Supporters of Duterte have dismissed the ICC probe as politically motivated, while human rights groups welcome it as a step toward justice for victims of extrajudicial killings. The Philippine government has yet to comment on Trillanes' latest claims.
