FIVE minority bloc senators filed a resolution, urging Senator Bato dela Rosa to surrender after the ICC released an arrest warrant against him.
Proposed Senate Resolution No. 395, dated May 12, 2026, was introduced by Senators Francis Pangilinan, Vicente Sotto III, Panfilo Lacson, Risa Hontiveros, and Bam Aquino, emphasizing that compliance with legal processes is essential to uphold the integrity of the Senate and the rule of law.
In their measure, the lawmakers pointed to established precedents within the chamber, noting that past and present officials have consistently respected judicial proceedings even when facing serious cases.
They cited examples such as the late former Senator Juan Ponce Enrile, who voluntarily submitted himself to the courts, as well as Representative Leila de Lima and former Senator Antonio Trillanes IV, both of whom pursued available legal remedies and recognized the authority of the justice system. According to the group, these actions demonstrate that public officials must stand equal before the law, regardless of position or influence.
The resolution underscored a key constitutional principle: “Adherence to lawful processes and voluntary submission to judicial authority strengthen democratic institutions, reinforce constitutional accountability, and uphold the principle that no public official is above the law.”
It further clarified that the Senate has no power or legal basis to grant protective custody, sanctuary, or immunity from lawful arrest, surrender, or judicial processes. The bloc stressed that the legislature is not a safe haven and cannot shield any member from valid legal orders issued by competent authorities.
Dela Rosa is currently staying within the Senate premises under what his camp describes as protective custody while awaiting a decision from the Supreme Court on his petition for a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) to stop the enforcement of the ICC warrant.
The warrant links him to alleged crimes against humanity committed during the previous administration’s war on drugs. With this resolution, the minority bloc makes clear its position that the senator’s continued stay inside the complex without submitting to due process undermines both the institution and the country’s commitment to legal accountability.
