Senator Ronald Dela Rosa remains fugitive as PNP intensifies manhunt

The Philippine National Police (PNP) is continuing its manhunt for Senator Ronald ‘Bato’ Dela Rosa, who has been in hiding since May 14. The search follows an International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrant naming the former PNP chief as a ‘co-perpetrator’ in crimes against humanity related to the drug war conducted during the administration of former President Rodrigo Duterte.

Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla stated that the government is engaged in confidential negotiations with ‘powerful protectors’ allegedly shielding the senator. Remulla emphasized the goal of a peaceful surrender to avoid casualties, noting that the government is prepared to use economic and military levers to force him out of hiding.

In addition to the manhunt, authorities are tracking 91 firearms registered to Dela Rosa that remain unaccounted for after the PNP Firearms and Explosives Office revoked his licenses. While the PNP maintains its efforts are ‘relentless,’ Dela Rosa’s legal counsel has denied knowledge of any powerful protectors, stating the senator relies solely on faith.