MANILA, Philippines — National Security Adviser (NSA) Gen. Eduardo Año on Thursday refuted claims that he was involved in an alleged “grand conspiracy” behind the arrest of former President Rodrigo Duterte, calling such accusations “utterly unacceptable and unfair.”

Speaking before the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, chaired by Senator Imee Marcos, Año said he had “no part” in the implementation of the International Criminal Court (ICC) warrant against Duterte and only learned about the Interpol Red Notice on March 11, the day it was enforced.

“I’d like to state for the record that my role was limited to the mandate of my office—to ensure that the situation does not escalate into a national security concern,” Año said. 

“The implementation of the ICC warrant is beyond my mandate,” he said

The NSA chief emphasized that there was no intelligence operation involved in Duterte’s arrest, noting that the former president’s whereabouts in Hong Kong and subsequent return to the Philippines had been widely reported in mainstream and social media.

Victim of disinformation?

Año, who previously served in Duterte’s Cabinet as Interior Secretary, lamented that he has been the target of a “relentless disinformation campaign” aimed at destroying his credibility.

“While public officials are not supposed to be thin-skinned, I rolled with the punches for several days. However, the time has come to air my side,” he said.

Despite his long-standing ties with Duterte, Año maintained that his loyalty has always been to the Constitution and the chain of command, citing his service under multiple administrations, including those of Presidents Benigno Aquino III, Duterte, and Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

‘Political loyalty vs national security’

Año’s remarks come amid swirling allegations that a so-called “core group” within the Marcos administration orchestrated Duterte’s arrest. The former president’s allies have claimed that certain government officials, including Año, played a role in facilitating the ICC’s move against him.

However, Año categorically denied any involvement in such a group.

“May I also state for the record that I am not aware of any core group, nor am I a member of such group that allegedly planned and prepared for the arrest of former President Duterte,” he said.

He also stressed that his appointment as NSA was a continuation of his service to the Filipino people, not a political move.

“I never play politics, I do not have a political agenda, nor will I have political ambitions,” Año said.

Senate probe ongoing

The Senate Committee on Foreign Relations has yet to determine the extent of the Philippine government’s role in Duterte’s arrest, if any. Meanwhile, Duterte’s supporters continue to demand accountability, alleging that his detention was politically motivated.

Despite the controversy, Año stood firm on his stance.

“I face all these accusations against my honor and integrity with a firm resolve, knowing that I am on the side of the truth,” he said.