NATIONAL Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Director Melvin Matibag announced Monday that subpoenas were issued to four individuals — including acting Senate Sergeant‑at‑Arms Mao Aplasca — last seen with Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa before he went into hiding over an ICC arrest warrant.
Also summoned are Pasay City Police chief Col. Joselito De Sesto, Sen. Robin Padilla’s deputy chief of staff Col. Jean Robles, and Padilla’s uncle. They are set to appear within the week to shed light on the senator’s whereabouts.
Matibag clarified that receiving a subpoena does not mean one is accused. “You are not subpoenaed because you are automatically accused. You are called to help clarify facts or serve as a witness,” he explained, reassuring the public that the move is purely for information‑gathering purposes.
The agency is also considering summoning Dela Rosa’s wife, Nancy, after Senate President Alan Peter Cayetano said she claimed her husband had “escaped” amid confusion from a shooting incident. Dela Rosa is wanted by the ICC for alleged crimes against humanity linked to at least 32 killings during the 2016–2018 anti‑drug campaign.
