Sen Bato dela Rosa remains absent amid ICC arrest warrant rumors

Senator Bato dela Rosa was absent from his duties as a Senate representative to a bicameral conference committee meeting on Saturday, December 13, continuing his month-long absence.

His prolonged absence began amidst rumors and an announcement by Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla that the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued a warrant of arrest against him related to the previous administration's drug war.

Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla stated that Dela Rosa has been transferring to different places using different vehicles with the help of some friends, and has been spotted in six locations in the last three weeks.

While the Department of the Interior and Local Government acknowledged they are aware of his whereabouts, they have not confirmed or denied the existence of an arrest warrant.

Dela Rosa's lawyer stated that the senator is avoiding public appearance because his personal safety is at stake due to the reported ICC arrest warrant.

Senate President Tito Sotto has indicated that an ethics complaint could be filed against Senator dela Rosa due to his continued absence.

He was designated as one of the contingents for the bicameral meeting due to his vice-chairmanship of the Senate Finance Committee.