THE Philippine National Police‑Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP‑CIDG) is set to issue a subpoena against Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa in connection with more than 100 complaints of alleged extrajudicial killings (EJKs) recorded in the Davao Region during his stint as a top police official.
Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Juanito Victor “Jonvic” Remulla made this clear during a press briefing on Sunday, emphasizing that the document to be served on Monday is merely a legal order to appear and assist in the probe — and not an arrest warrant.
Remulla explained that the subpoena forms part of the ongoing investigation by the House Quad Committee, covering the period when Dela Rosa served as Davao City Police Office director and later as regional chief of the Philippine National Police in Davao.
“The CIDG will issue a subpoena tomorrow to General De La Rosa to appear personally before the CIDG office here in aid of the investigation of the previous crimes,” Remulla said. He clarified: “There will be no handcuffs. It is merely a subpoena for investigation, not an arrest warrant.” He added that Dela Rosa has not yet undergone personal questioning regarding these allegations, and the move was accelerated amid circulating reports about a possible Interpol Red Notice related to the case.
According to the Interior Secretary, the inquiry focuses on the numerous complaints linking police operations during that period to unlawful deaths and human rights abuses.
Authorities decided to take proactive steps to move the process forward and address speculations by formally summoning the senator to give his side and provide relevant information. Remulla also disclosed that Dela Rosa is currently in the Davao Region and has already been notified that the subpoena will be served soon.
This development marks a significant step in the government’s effort to look into past allegations of human rights violations. Remulla stressed that the objective is to follow due process and complete the fact‑finding process properly. “He has not been personally investigated.
This was triggered by the rumors of the impending red notice, and we have taken now the path ourselves to continue the investigation on all these matters,” Remulla said, reaffirming that all proceedings will be conducted in accordance with Philippine laws and legal standards.
