FRIDAY marks the end of the one‑week ultimatum issued by the Philippine National Police (PNP) for Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa to voluntarily surrender to authorities.
The deadline comes amid heightened tensions following the issuance of an arrest warrant related to the International Criminal Court (ICC) investigation, with the PNP having previously warned that dela Rosa is considered “armed and dangerous” and is reportedly being protected by a group in Mindanao.
The government has also posted a ₱50‑million reward for information leading to his arrest, and officials have cautioned that any forced operation to apprehend him carries the risk of violence and potential casualties.
Senator dela Rosa has thus far remained at large, with his legal team maintaining that he has done nothing wrong and questioning the legal basis for the arrest order.
Malacañang has publicly called on the former Philippine National Police chief to turn himself in peacefully, emphasizing that voluntary surrender is the only way to prevent bloodshed and uphold the rule of law. The Department of the Interior and Local Government has also confirmed that negotiations are underway with the group believed to be sheltering him, though authorities have made clear that these discussions are aimed at securing his peaceful turnover rather than granting immunity.
As the deadline approaches, security forces are on heightened alert, and the public has been advised to remain calm but vigilant. Authorities have stated that if dela Rosa fails to surrender by the end of Friday, law enforcement will proceed with appropriate measures to effect his arrest, though officials have not disclosed specific operational details.
The PNP has reassured the public that it remains committed to carrying out its mandate in accordance with the law, while also urging all parties to exhaust every peaceful avenue to resolve the situation before any enforcement action is taken.
metrosundaily
