SENATE President Francis “Chiz” Escudero has confirmed that Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa is protected from arrest within the Senate building. This protection extends to Dela Rosa, a co-defendant in the ongoing International Criminal Court (ICC) proceedings.
This protection is rooted in long-standing Senate tradition, Escudero explained. He cited several historical instances where sitting senators facing criminal charges were shielded from arrest within the Senate premises. These included former Senators Juan Ponce Enrile, Gregorio Honasan, and Panfilo Lacson, each facing different accusations at various times.
Escudero emphasized that this immunity is a matter of institutional courtesy, not a legally codified right. The Senate, he stated, will not allow the arrest of its members within the Senate building.
This protection will remain in place, particularly during Senate sessions, ensuring the uninterrupted functioning of the Senate and the exercise of its members’ legislative duties.
