Senator Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa, a staunch ally of former President Rodrigo Duterte, said he plans to remain within the Senate premises as a protective measure amid the International Criminal Court’s plan to arrest him.
In a press briefing on Wednesday, March 19, Dela Rosa addressed rumors about his potential arrest and his options moving forward, emphasizing his trust in the Senate as an institution.
“Dito lang ako. Dito lang sa Pilipinas. Secret tayo. Bakit tayo umalis sa Pilipinas?” Dela Rosa said, dismissing speculations about fleeing the country.
The senator, who faces potential legal actions related to his role in the previous administration’s controversial drug war, expressed gratitude to Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero for offering him protection.
When asked if staying in the Senate was a viable option, Dela Rosa confirmed it was a significant consideration.
“Malaking option yan para sa akin. Magandang kwan yan para sa akin option. Dahil nga, hindi ka na pwedeng huli. Nandyan ka sa loob. At dapat respetuhin nila yung Senate as an institution. So, maganda yun para sa akin,” he explained.
However, not everyone supports the idea of the Senate shielding Dela Rosa. Congressman Manuel, a critic of the senator, argued that the Senate should not serve as a sanctuary for those facing legal troubles.
“What do you expect from those people? Sabihin mo, magsenador muna siya para pakinggan ni Chiz Escudero yung kanyang kagustuhan. Sabihin mo, magsenador ka muna, Manuel, para pakinggan ka ni SP,” Dela Rosa said.
Despite his determination to stay in the Senate, Dela Rosa clarified that this was not a permanent solution.
He added that he is awaiting the Supreme Court’s decision on his case.
When asked about the possibility of going into hiding, Dela Rosa admitted that it is among the options he is considering. However, he emphasized that surrender is not on the table.
“Well, kung wala tayong makita na hustisya dito sa ating bansa, bakit ka susuko? Di ba?” Dela Rosa said.
Dela Rosa also addressed concerns about his safety and the challenges faced by former President Duterte, who is currently detained in The Hague.
“Mahirap man daw doon. Ultimo yung anak nga, hindi makalapit. Hindi makabisita nang basta-basta yung anak na si Vice President Sara. How much more kung ako, na pareho lang kaming detainee?”
Despite the challenges, he assured he remains loyal to former President Duterte. (TCSP)
