Philippines denies arrest of Senator Bato Dela Rosa amid ICC warrant rumors

Rumors that Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa had been arrested were dismissed by the Philippine government. The Presidential Communications Office said the claims, spread by supporters of Vice President Sara Duterte, were a diversion from her impeachment trial and lacked any factual basis. Both the Department of Justice and the Department of the Interior and Local Government reported no knowledge of any arrest.

National Bureau of Investigation Director Melvin Matibag confirmed that authorities are still searching for Dela Rosa, who remains subject to an International Criminal Court arrest warrant for alleged involvement in the former president’s anti‑drug campaign. The senator’s lawyer also said he had received no information about any apprehension. The ICC warrant remains active, and Dela Rosa, a former police chief, is still considered “at large.”